25-09-2012MEAPublication Articles from all over the globe. http://202.131.117.199/MeaFinal
en-usaCopyright 200920631Resolution of the 9th World Hindi Conference

The 9th World Hindi Conference was organized in Johannesburg, South Africa from 22-24 September, 2012. Organization of the conference in South Africa reflects historic, strong and growing relationship of India and it's people, with not only South Africa
but the entire region of Africa. This is also a tribute from the global community of Hindi lovers to Mahatma Gandhi's association with the country.

The conference expressed its gratitude to Dr. Nelson Mandela, the great leader of the South Africa who imbibed the eternal principles of peace, non-violence and justice propounded by Mahatma Gandhi, who showed the way to an honourable life to the people
of not only his own country but the entire humanity.

The 9th World Hindi Conference, which was attended by Hindi scholars, litterateurs and Hindi lovers from all over the world, underlined the following issues:

Gandhi's linguistics vision has a fundamental contribution to the growing globalization of Hindi.

The idea of setting up the World Hindi Secretariat was conceived at the first World Hindi Conference. This Conference appreciates the efforts and support of the Govt. of India and Govt. of Mauritius for realizing this idea by setting up the Secretariat
in Mauritius.

The Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalya is also an outcome of the decisions adopted by the World Hindi Conference. This University is doing a commendable job in promotion and propagation of Hindi as also in developing appropriate modern teaching
tools.

The Conference also appreciates the work being done by the Kendriya Hindi Sansthan for developing appropriate syllabus and by conducting classes for foreigners as wells as for Indian student from non Hindi speaking regions, and thus promoting and propagating
Hindi.

The Conference also appreciates the work being done by the electronic and print media especially Hindi media, films and theatre who are taking knowledge at the door steps through the media of Hindi.

It appreciates the work being done by Hindi Shiksha Sangha and other organizations in South Africa for Hindi teaching and for promotion of Hindi. It expresses its gratitude to them for their support to Hindi.

The interest of the youth in Hindi is increasing which is also a part of role being played by development of IT tools as well as Hindi films, electronic media and social media. It is also a result of linking Hindi language to trade, commerce and the market.

The foreign students are learning Hindi for reasons other than their interest in Hindi language, literature and Indian culture which proves its relevance and importance in the global context.

The role of Pravasi writers in the promotion of Hindi is also commendable.

A Samarika and a special issue of Ganganchal magazine were published on this occasion. The Conference commends the work of the editorial boards for the publication of this magazine.

A composite exhibition on Hindi language, literature, Information Technology and life and works of Mahatma Gandhi was put up on this occasion. All participants showed great interest in the exhibition. The conference appreciates the efforts of the organizers
of the exhibition.

The cultural programmes performed by the artists of Indian Council of cultural relations and local artists of South Africa also greatly impressed the participants. The conference appreciates the organizers of these programmes.

A daily news bulletin was brought out on the various activities of the conference every day. It appreciates the efforts and the hard work put in by the Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Vishwavidyalay for this.

The conference expresses its deep gratitude to the Government of South Africa for their support, cooperation, assistance for the conference due to which the conference could be organized successfully.

In view of the action taken as detailed above, the conference desires that:

The World Hindi Secretariat in Mauritius may create a resource centre of database regarding Universities, Schools and Educational Institutions engaged in teaching Hindi in different countries.

The World Hindi Secretariat may also create a database regarding Hindi scholars, writers and the people engaged in promotion of Hindi worldwide.

In view of the compatibility of Hindi language with Information Technology the IT institutions may continue the important work of developing Hindi language related tools and all possible support should be given in realization of the subject.

Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya, Wardha is authorized to prepare a standard syllabus for teaching Hindi to the foreigners.

In order to promote Hindi teaching in Africa and in view of the global environment, interest and aspiration of the youth, appropriate literature and books may be prepared.

Adequate software in Devanagari Lipi may also be developed so that Hindi speakers and lovers across the world may benefit from it.

In view of the importance of translation and in the context of its various dimentions there is need for research, appropriate action may be taken in this direction.

Thematic Regional Hindi Conferences are held in different countries in the interim period between the World Hindi Conferences. There objective is to address the problems faced in teaching and promotion of Hindi in the respective regions. Commending this
effort the conference emphasized that this work should be encourage further.

There is a tradition to honour Indian and Foreign scholars during the World Hindi Conferences. In keeping with the prestige of the honour, the commendation should be given an appropriate nomenclature and called 'Vishwa Hindi Samman'.

Underlining the resolution passed in the previous World Hindi Conference the conference calls for ensuring a time bound action for getting Hindi recognize as one of the official languages of the United Nation.

As far as possible the interval between two World Hindi Conference should be a maximum of three years. The 10th World Hindi Conference may be organized in India.

Johannesburg,
September 24, 2012

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MEA2063120619List of Documents signed during the State Visit of President of Burundi

Shri Pradeep Kumar Jain Aditya, Hon’ ble Minister of State for Rural Development

New Delhi
September 18, 2012

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MEA2061920620Joint Statement on the State Visit of President of Burundi to India

His Excellency Mr. Pierre Nkurunziza, President of the Republic of Burundi paid a State Visit to India from 17-19 September, 2012 at the invitation of Hon’ble President Shri Pranab Mukherjee.

He was accompanied by Her Excellency First Lady Mrs. Denise Bucumi Nkurunziza and a high-level Ministerial and official delegation. The Ministers accompanying included His Excellency Mr. Laurent Kavakure, Minister of External Relations and International
Cooperation; Her Excellency Ms. Kayitesi, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock; and His Excellency Mr. Come Manirakiza, Minister of Energy and Mines.

The President of Burundi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on September 18, 2012. The President laid a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat and paid homage to the Father of the Indian Nation. During the State Visit,
President Nkurunziza met the Hon’ble President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee who hosted a banquet in his honour. Hon’ble Vice President Shri M. Hamid Ansari called on the President of Burundi. The President of Burundi and the Prime Minister of India held
detailed discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The President of Burundi received Minister of State for External Affairs Mrs. Preneet Kaur.

The President of Burundi and the Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh held delegation-level discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues. These discussions were held in a warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere reflecting the developing
multi-faceted bilateral partnership between the two countries.

The two leaders recalled their meeting on the sidelines of the Second Africa-India Forum Summit held in Addis Ababa in May 2011 and discussions held thereon.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the intensification of diplomatic contacts between the two countries, particularly after the opening of resident Embassy by Burundi in New Delhi in 2009. The leaders positively assessed the growing bilateral political,
trade and economic relations. The General Cooperation Agreement signed during the visit of Minister of State for External Affairs of India in February 2012 was seen to provide an important platform for cooperation between the two countries in various areas.

Both sides agreed to further enhance the bilateral cooperation in view of the considerable untapped potential.

President of Burundi thanked the Government of India for approval of a concessional line of credit of US $ 80 mn for the Kabu – 16 Hydro-electric project. Completion of the project will go a long way in meeting Burundi’s electricity requirements.

President Nkurunziza expressed satisfaction for the successful implementation of the Tele-education and Tele-medicine centres in Burundi set up in August 2010 under the Pan African E-Network project. Under the tele-education programme, Burundi has concluded
agreements with the University of Madras and Indira Gandhi National Open University.

The two leaders reviewed and expressed satisfaction at the implementation of the following projects, which have been offered to Burundi as part of the decisions of the India-Africa Forum Summits of 2008 and 2011:

India-Africa Institute of Education, Planning and Administration;

India-Africa Vocational Training Centre;

Village electrification in Burundi through the setting up of Biomass Gasifiers; and

Farm Science Centre.

India is also setting up an IT Centre of Excellence as a bilateral commitment. The two sides have identified the main thrust areas for the proposed Centre.

Both sides agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and investment, finance, human resource development, culture, etc. while striving to expand cooperation into other potential areas such as agriculture, food processing,
ICT, science & technology, health, mining etc. Burundi invited Indian investments in infrastructure development, mining, agriculture, power generation and transmission, tourism among others. Both sides agreed to find ways and means of enhancing and further
expanding the bilateral trade and investment.

President Nkurunziza thanked the Government of India for the increased number of long-term scholarships provided to Burundian students in the educational institutions in India under Indian Council for Cultural Relations. He also appreciated the high quality
of training being imparted to the Burundian officials under Indian Technical and Economical Cooperation (ITEC) programme and various short-term training and long-term fellowship programmes of the India Africa Forum Summit mechanism. These programmes have been
useful to Burundi in its human resource development.

The Burundian Government requested Government of India’s assistance to finance some of their infrastructure projects. Government of India assured President Nkurunziza of India’s continued support in Burundi’s economic and infrastructural development. Government
of India announced a Line of Credit of US$ 42.38 million for Farm Mechanisation and Integrated Food Processing Complex in Burundi. The President of Burundi expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister of India for this financial support.

President Nkurunziza also appreciated the contribution of India through the IBSA Trust Fund for strengthening infrastructure and capacity to combat HIV/AIDS in Burundi.

The following agreements were signed during the visit: (i) Exchange Programme for Cooperation in the field of Education, (ii) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Rural Development and (iii) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation
in the field of Health and Medicine.

President Nkurunziza took special note of India’s active participation in the United Nations sponsored peace missions in Africa, and the role it continues to play in promoting peace and security in the continent. India appreciated Burundi’s contribution
of forces to the AMISOM in an effort to bring in peace and security in Somalia.

President Nkurunziza conveyed Burundi’s support for India’s candidature for Permanent Membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council. The Indian side thanked Burundi for its support to India’s candidature for Permanent Membership in an expanded
United Nations Security Council.

Burundi informed of its application for the membership of the Commonwealth and requested India’s support. India conveyed that, in view of the excellent and growing bilateral relations, the request of Burundi will be considered when the Commonwealth Secretary-General
consults with member States in this regard, in keeping with the agreed process for membership of the Commonwealth.

Both India and Burundi strongly condemned the menace of international terrorism and its devastating effect on the human civilization. They affirmed that there can be no justification for terrorism and reiterated their resolve to work towards strengthening
of the global consensus and legal regimes against terrorism.

Both sides agreed that the State Visit of the President of Burundi will lead to strengthening of the cooperative relations between the two countries, and will provide further impetus for the future development of a comprehensive partnership.

The President of Burundi conveyed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the President and Prime Minister of India for the warm hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation during the visit. President Nkurunziza invited the President and
the Prime Minister of India to pay State Visits to Burundi on mutually convenient dates. The invitations were accepted with gratitude and it was agreed that the dates of the visits would be finalized through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
September 18, 2012

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MEA2062020614Joint Statement on the Visit of Defence Minister of India to Maldives

On the invitation of the Defence Minister of Maldives, H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim, the Defence Minister of India Shri A.K.Antony accompanied by a high level delegation paid a three day official visit from 15th to 17th September 2012 to Maldives. In Male,
the Indian Minister held detailed discussions with the Maldivian side led by his Maldivian counterpart. He also called on H.E President of Maldives Dr. Mohamed Waheed.

The Maldivian side welcomed the second visit of the Indian Defence Minister since 2009 as a continuation of the tradition of regular exchange of high level visits between India and Maldives. At the formal talks, both the sides reviewed the status of existing
bilateral defence relations including the projects being currently executed with the assistance of the Government of India. Noting the entwined destinies of the two countries and the commonalities in the security concerns, both the countries agreed to continue
to work closely in the area of defence and security.

During the Call on H.E President Dr. Mohamed Waheed, both the sides noted with satisfaction, the enduring close and multi-dimensional relations and deep friendship between the two countries. Maldivian leadership conveyed its profound appreciation to India,
its close and trusted friend for its continued support and assistance to Maldives. Indian side was briefed on the present domestic political and economic situation in Maldives and the ongoing initiative to strengthen and consolidate the nascent democracy in
the country. It was agreed that both sides would work to step up the bilateral cooperation in all areas.

During his visit, the Indian Defence Minister formally inaugurated with H.E Mr. Mohamed Nazim, the MNDF hospital "SENAHIYA” established in Male (Maldives) with the assistance of the Government of India. Indian Defence Minister also laid the Foundation stone
for the MNDF Composite Training Center, to be established with the assistance of the Government of India, in Maafilafushi (Lhaviyaani Atoll).

Indian Defence Minister thanked the Maldivian leadership and the MNDF for the warm reception and hospitality provided to the delegation during the visit. Shri A.K.Antony invited Defence Minister of Maldives H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim to visit India. The
invitation was accepted with pleasure. On conclusion of the visit, which marked an important milestone in the bilateral relations, the Indian delegation was seen off at the Male Airport by H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim, High Commissioner of India in Maldives
and senior officials of the MNDF.

Male,
September 17, 2012

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MEA2061420540List of documents signed during the State Visit of President of Palestine to India

S.No

Title of MOUs

Signatory from Indian side

Signatory from Palestinian side

1

MoU between The Government of the Republic of India and The Government of the State of Palestine for establishing India-Palestine Centre of Excellence in ICT

MoU between The Government of the Republic of India and The Government of the State of Palestine for providing Technical and Vocational education training equipment and training services for the Ministry of Labour’s Vocational Training Centres
in Palestine.

MoU between The Government of the Republic of India and The Government of the State of Palestine for Construction and Equipping of Jawaharlal Nehru Secondary School for Girls in Asera Al Shamalyeh and Jawaharlal Nehru Secondary School for Boys
in Abu Dees.

Fact Sheet on the documents signed during the State Visit of President of Palestine to India

Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the State of Palestine for establishing India – Palestine Centre of Excellence In ICT.

Under this MOU, a state of the art centre on ICT will be set up in Palestine. Given India’s expertise in the field of ICT, this project will create a pool of IT experts and generate employment opportunities for them.

IT professionals from Palestine will also be given a higher-level training in India in the field of ICT who will then impart training to Palestinians making the ICT centre self reliant.

Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), a premier R&D organization of the Dept. of Electronics and Information Technology (DeitY) under the Ministry of Communications & Information Technology, will be the implementing agency for this project.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the State of Palestine for providing Technical and Vocational Education Training Equipment and Training Services for the Ministry
of labour’s Vocational Training Centres in Palestine.

This proposal has been considered for capacity building of youth and women of Palestine by providing machinery and technical expertise for vocational training centres in Palestine.

The Indian government will provide equipment for VTCs in the existing Palestinian infrastructure.

Identified trainers from Palestine will be given necessary training in India so that they are able to train the local youth and women in Palestine.

This Project will be implemented by HMT International Ltd., a GoI Enterprise under the Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the State of Palestine for Construction and Equipping of Jawaharlal Nehru Secondary School for Girls in Asera Al Shamalyeh And
Jawaharlal Nehru Secondary School for Boys in Abu Dees.

The estimated cost of the project for two schools is US$ 1.8 million.

These two schools will cater to educational needs of about 800 students in the Palestinian districts of Asera Al Shamalyeh, Abu Dees and neighbouring villages.

The school in Asera Al Shamalyeh will have a constructed area of 1900 sq.m. with 12 class rooms and other facilities; Abu Dees School will be constructed in an area of 1700 sq.m. with 10 classrooms and other facilities.

New Delhi
September 11, 2012

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MEA2054020530Joint Statement issued by India and Pakistan during the visit of External Affairs Minister to Pakistan

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan H.E. Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar and the Minister of External Affairs of India H.E. Mr. S.M. Krishna met in Islamabad on September 8, 2012, for a meeting to review progress in the Dialogue process.

The Ministerial level talks were preceded by a meeting between the Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India on September 7, 2012.

The Ministers noted that the dialogue process is guided by the commitment of leadership of the two countries, expressed at the highest level, to find peaceful and mutually acceptable solutions to all outstanding issues and to build a relationship of trust
and all round cooperation between Pakistan and India.

The Ministers expressed satisfaction at the increase in high level bilateral exchanges between the two countries since their last meeting in New Delhi in July 2011, namely, leadership level meetings between President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh at New Delhi and Tehran in April and August 2012, the first ever bilateral visit of the Speaker of Lok Sabha to Pakistan at the invitation of the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, visit of the Commerce Minister of Pakistan to India,
after 35 years, in September 2011, another visit by the Commerce Minister of Pakistan to India in April 2012, and the first ever bilateral visit of the Commerce and Industry Minister of India to Pakistan in February 2012. The Ministers underlined the importance
of continued high level exchange between the two countries.

The Ministers held substantive discussions on the whole range of issues within the framework of the Dialogue process and expressed satisfaction over the progress achieved since their last review meeting in July 2011.

The Ministers reaffirmed the importance of carrying forward the dialogue process with a view to resolving peacefully all outstanding issues through constructive and result oriented engagement, and to establish friendly, cooperative and good neighborly relations
between Pakistan and India.

The Ministers agreed that terrorism poses a continuing threat to peace and security. They reaffirmed the strong commitment of the two countries to fight terrorism in an effective and comprehensive manner so as to eliminate the scourge in all its forms and
manifestations.

The Ministers noted the commitment given by Pakistan during the Interior/ Home Secretary talks in May 2012 to bring all the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attacks to justice expeditiously in accordance with due process of law.

The Ministers noted that during the Interior/ Home Secretary talks in May 2012 Indian side had conveyed that the investigation in the Samjhauta Express blast case is still ongoing and updated information will be shared with the Pakistan authorities, through
diplomatic channels when the investigation is completed.

The Ministers welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on "Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotics Drugs/ Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemicals and related matters’ between the Anti Narcotics Force
of Pakistan and Narcotics Control Bureau of India in September 2011 and expressed the hope that the MoU will help enhance mutual cooperation between Pakistan and India through effective and sustained steps to control the growing menace of drug trafficking.

The Ministers welcomed the release of prisoners and fishermen, including those suffering from ailments, in the past year or so. They agreed that the Agreement on Consular Access should be implemented in letter and spirit including immediate notification
of arrests by either side, consular access to all persons within three months of arrests, release of prisoners within one month of completion of sentence and confirmation of their national status. The Ministers also welcomed the continued work of the Judicial
Committee and agreed with the need to implement its recommendations on various aspects of release and repatriation of prisoners and fishermen of each country by the other and adoption of the humane approach in dealing with cases of fishermen and prisoners,
especially women, elderly, juvenile, and those terminally ill or suffering from serious illness or physical/ mental disability.

The Ministers noted that talks were held between the Director General of the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency and the Director General of the Indian Coast Guard in New Delhi in July 2012 and agreed to the importance of continuing their meetings. They further
directed that the issues relating to fishermen as contained in para-10 of the Joint Statement issued after the Interior/Home Secretaries talks between Pakistan and India in March 2011 would be further examined by the relevant authorities of the two countries.

The Ministers welcomed the decision during the last meeting of the Home/ Interior Secretaries of the two countries in May 2012 to initiate discussions in order to strengthen mutual cooperation in criminal matters.

The Ministers attached importance to promoting Peace and Security, including Confidence Building Measures, between the two countries and agreed to convene separate meetings of the Expert Groups on Nuclear and Conventional CBMs, in New Delhi in the second
half of December 2012.

The Ministers held discussions on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir and agreed to the need for continued discussions, in a purposeful and forward looking manner, with a view to finding a peaceful solution by narrowing divergences and building convergences.

The Ministers reviewed the existing Cross-LoC CBMs and acknowledged that the ceasefire was holding since 2003. They also reviewed the implementation of the decisions taken regarding travel and trade across the Line of Control (LoC) in their last meeting
in July 2011. They expressed satisfaction at the increasing number of people of Jammu and Kashmir who are able to avail of the facility to travel across LoC, and also at the growing Cross-LoC trade benefitting them on both sides of the LoC. They also welcomed
the enhancement of the number of days for conducting trade across LoC from two to four per week, as had been agreed by them. Taking note of the recommendations made by the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Cross-LoC CBMs in its meeting in Islamabad on July 19,
2012, the Ministers decided the following :-

Cross-LoC Travel:

Cross-LoC travel would be expanded on both sides of LoC to include visits for tourism and religious pilgrimage.

Tourist and Pilgrimage sites will be designated on both sides of the LoC and information will be available with the designated authorities.

Such visits will be conducted by designated Tour Operators in groups not exceeding 15 persons.

Permits for such visits will be single entry, non-extendable and valid for up to 15 days.

Travel for tourism or pilgrimage will be arranged during summer season i.e. April to October.

Crossing for such visits will initially be from Chakothi-Uri and Rawalakot-Poonch Crossing points.

Both sides will facilitate speedy clearance of applications for travel across LoC. The process time should not be more than 45 days.

Both sides will extend necessary assistance to valid entry permit holders to cross the LoC in emergency situation on crossing as well as non-crossing days. This will be facilitated by designated authorities.

Cross-LoC Trade:

List of 21 products of permissible items for Cross-LoC trade will be respected by both sides.

Regular meetings between the traders on monthly basis on both sides will be facilitated.

Improvement of roads and bridges for Cross-LoC trade will be facilitated.

Transportation links on operational crossing points will be upgraded.

Both sides agreed to facilitate the exchange of business delegations.

It was agreed that the JWG on Cross-LoC CBMs will meet on a bi-annual basis to review existing arrangements and suggest additional CBMs and measures for Cross-LoC travel and trade.

Both sides agreed to the need for promoting friendly exchanges between the two countries. They also discussed measures for promoting cooperation in various fields including facilitating visits to religious shrines, media exchanges, holding of sports tournaments
and cessation of hostile propaganda against each other.

The Ministers welcomed the signing of the new Visa Agreement which liberalises bilateral visa regime and introduces a number of measures aimed at easing travel of business persons, tourists, pilgrims, elderly and children, thereby facilitating contacts
between peoples of the two countries, who should remain at the heart of the relationship between Pakistan and India.

The Ministers welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of culture between the Pakistan National Council of the Arts and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

The two sides exchanged views on Siachen, Sir Creek and Wullar Barrage/ Tulbul Navigation Project, agreed that there is the need to effectively address these issues by finding mutually acceptable solutions and reiterated their commitment to do so. They
also reaffirmed the importance of abiding by the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty.

The Ministers expressed satisfaction at the progress registered towards normalizing bilateral trade and commercial relations. The Ministers firmly reiterated that both sides will scrupulously adhere to the roadmap drawn up by the two Commerce Ministries
for full normalization of trade relations. They agreed that a strong and enhanced economic partnership is in the interest of peoples of both countries.

The Ministers welcomed reactivation of the Pakistan-India Joint Commission, in accordance with their decision taken last year. They Co-Chaired the Plenary of the Joint Commission, which met for the first time after 2007. They expressed satisfaction at the
meetings of all eight Technical Level Working Groups and noted that these Groups have made a number of suggestions for exploring mutually beneficial cooperation in areas of agriculture, education, environment, health, information and broadcasting, information
technology and telecommunication, science and technology and tourism. They took note of and approved the Report by the Foreign Secretaries, which is annexed.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the goals and objectives of SAARC and agreed to make joint efforts to promote cooperation for regional development in the SAARC framework.

The Ministers agreed to the launch of the next round of Secretary level dialogue on all eight segments, as contained in para-4 above. Schedule for these meetings will be worked out through diplomatic channels. They further agreed that all these meetings
will be held prior to their next review meeting in New Delhi in 2013.

The External Affairs Minister of India called on the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Areas Identified for Cooperation by Technical Level Working Groups of the Pakistan-India Joint Commission

The Pakistan-India Joint Commission met in Islamabad on 6th September 2012 in pursuance of the decision taken by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and Minister of External Affairs of India during their last meeting in New Delhi on 27 July 2011.
The reactivation of the Joint Commission was welcomed by both sides. The following eight Technical Level Working Groups (TLWG) discussed and identified avenues of mutually beneficial cooperation in the respective fields:

Agriculture

Education

Environment

Health

Information

IT & Telecom

Science and Technology

Tourism

The working group on Agriculture discussed avenues of cooperation and identified certain areas for collaboration including exchange of experts and training of scientists in the areas of crop improvement through the use of biotechnology, cooperation in seed
sector, quarantine related matters, livestock and dairy development sector, high efficiency irrigation system and rain water harvesting.

The working group on Education explored avenues for furthering cooperation in the fields of school and higher education, non-formal education and adult literacy. It also explored furthering cooperation through institutional linkages between Higher Education
Commission of Pakistan and University Grants Commission of India, linkages between National Vocational and Technical Training Commission of Pakistan and All India Council for Technical Education of India and exchange of experiences between National Book Foundation
of Pakistan, National Book Trust and National Council of Educational Research and Training of India.

The working group on Environment discussed various issues relating to environment and agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of climate change, renewable energy, environmental protection, energy conservation and Clean Development Mechanism, Bio diversity
and sustainable forest conservation, solid waste management. It agreed to share experiences and best practices including establishing institutional linkages for knowledge sharing and capacity building.

The working group on Health agreed to enhance cooperation in polio eradication and increasing immunization coverage, cooperation in women and child health, sharing experience for retaining human resourses in rural area exchange of information on regulatory
regime and institutional collaboration between Drug Regulatory Agency of Pakistan and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization of India. They also agreed to enhance cooperation in Quality Assurance and Drug Testing laboratories in pharmaceuticals and biological.

The working group on Information discussed issues concerning Information and Broadcasting. In this context, exchange of journalists and information professionals, organizing film festivals in each other’s countries, holding of seminars/workshops, between
Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and suitable Pakistani Institute; and between Film and Television Institute of India(FTII) and Academies of Pakistan Television Corporation and Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation; news exchange between official
news agencies and exchange of TV and Radio programmes were identified for future collaboration. Both sides agreed that media can play a pivotal role in building and enabling environment between the two countries.

The Working group on IT & Telecom discussed avenues of cooperation. Pakistan invited Indian companies to participate in ICT events in Pakistan. India offered to organize a customized e-governance workshop in India for Pakistan. They also discussed possibilities
of collaboration in International Domain Name (IDN), sharing best practices on e-governance. Open Source Technologies and IT Enabled Services. The Group emphasized improved visa facilitation for IT & Telecom professionals. India offered to forward a proposal
for establishing telemedicine linkages between the two countries.

The working group on Science and Technology discussed National Science, Technology Innovation System in Pakistan and India. They agreed to work on common areas of interest by holding joint workshops/seminars and short training programmes. They identified
areas of medicinal plants and herbal medicines (in Pakistan), renewable energy (in India ) and Standards for such collaboration. Both sides also agreed to participate in each other’s science popularization programs / activities.

The working group on Tourism held discussion on tourism industry and potential in both countries. They explored and identified areas for cooperation particularly in information sharing, Research and Development, human resource development in the field of
tourism, Destination management, marketing and promotion, Meetings Incentives Conference and Exhibition (MICE) tourism, travel and hospitality industry.

The Ministers recalled the Vientiane Declaration, the Hanoi Programme of Action and the Phnom Penh Road Map, that define the vision, objectives and specific actions to be taken in the areas for focus under the MGC. The Ministers reviewed the decisions taken
at the 5th MGC Meeting held on August 1, 2007 in Manila, the Philippines and noted the progress in the projects initiated thereof.

The Ministers reiterated the significance of the MGC for their countries and recalled its strong foundation in the cultural and commercial linkages amongst the member countries over many centuries.

The Ministers welcomed and adopted the Senior Officials' Report on their meeting held on September 3, 2012. The Ministers agreed with the SOM recommendation that there is considerable potential to expand the partnership into new areas of revelance to trade,
investment, sustainable development and the well-being of the people of MGC countries.

The Ministers recognized the need for short gestation projects that could directly benefit local communities, with results that are immediate and visible. The Ministers felt that these would give fresh impetus to cooperation under MGC. In this context,
the Ministers welcomed the announcement by India on the establishment of the India-CLMV Quick Impact Projects (QIP) Revolving Fund with an annual contribution of US$ 1 million.

The Ministers appreciated the completion of construction of the MGC Traditional Asian Textiles Museum building at Siem Reap, Cambodia in December 2011. Cambodia provided the land and undertook the construction with financial contribution by India. The Ministers
recognized that the 1st meeting of the Working Group on the MGC Textiles Museum project, held on May 4, 2012 in Siem Reap, Cambodia had made a number of recommendations and tasked the Senior Officials to undertake appropriate follow up. The Ministers welcomed
the initiative by India for setting up an Integrated Textile Centre with focus on Textile traditions of the MGC Countries as part of the Museum. The Ministers also agreed to utilize the space in the Museum for showcasing performing arts from the MGC countries,
especially since they are intrinsically linked to the textile traditions in these countries.

The Ministers took note of the ongoing cooperation for the preservation of the world heritage sites in MGC countries. They welcomed the offer of Thailand to work with India in this important area and tasked Senior Officials to identify new initiatives in
this regard. They welcomed Thailand’s offer for MGC participation in the UNESCO supported training programmes for "Under Water Archeological Survey” project.

The Ministers noted the recent positive developments in India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway project and other ongoing cooperation under the India-ASEAN framework to realize India-ASEAN Connectivity. They welcomed, in particular, the Meeting of the
Trilateral Highway Joint Task Force being hosted by India on September 10-11, 2012 in New Delhi. Keeping in view the significance of connectivity amongst the MGC countries, and its associated benefits, the Ministers agreed to expeditiously take forward matters
related to the extension of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway to Cambodia and Lao PDR, and to the new proposal for the development of an India-Myanmar-Lao PDR-Viet Nam-Cambodia highway.

The Ministers noted the threat of drug resistant malaria, which is emerging as a major public health issue in MGC countries, impacting disproportionately on the economically weaker sections. They agreed to recommend that MGC Health authorities consider
the formation of a Working Group in this important sector to share information and cooperate in pandemics management.

The Ministers recognized the wealth of natural resources and expertise available in the MGC sub-region, and the complementarity amongst Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) in MGC countries in terms of product, technology, human resources and market. They
agreed to explore the possibility of establishing a Working Group to review and monitor cooperation in the SME sector including the participation of the private sector wherever applicable and exchange of best practices.

The Ministers noted the richness of biodiversity in member countries and agreed that its loss would have adverse consequences for food security, health and other life sustaining resources. In the context of ongoing collaboration in different multilateral
fora, the Ministers noted the need for coordination and enhanced cooperation in biodiversity related issues. They welcomed Thailand’s announcement of the World Teak Conference in March 2013 in Bangkok and also the offer for MGC participation in Eco-tourism
and Community-based Tourism training courses organized by the Thailand International Development Cooperation Agency in 2013.

The Ministers acknowledged that rice is the most important crop in MGC countries. Despite significant progress, rice production continues to face many challenges. The Ministers tasked the Senior Officials to explore mutually beneficial cooperation in rice
production techniques and downstream processing projects. They took note of the Concept Paper circulated by India for such cooperation.

The Ministers noted the establishment and progress of Entrepreneurship Development Centres (EDCs), Centre for English Language Training (CELTs), and Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) by India in CLMV countries. They accepted the recommendation of the SOM
that this ongoing cooperation should be strengthened and expanded.

The Ministers appreciated India’s annual scholarships to MGC countries under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, which have been contributing consistently to capacity building and human resource development of MGC countries.
They welcomed India’s offer to organize special customized capacity building programmes on WTO related issues and trade and sustainability matters. The Ministers agreed on the need for effective and full utilization of scholarships with a view to increasing
trade relations and economic cooperation amongst MGC countries.

The Ministers appreciated India’s continued support in providing 50 scholarships through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to students from MGC countries and the extension of the scheme to 2016.

The Ministers reaffirmed the important role of Nalanda University and took note of the progress made by India in re-establishing the Nalanda University. To preserve the long history of intra-Asian interactions, the Ministers tasked the Senior Officials
to explore the possibility of establishment of a Common Archival Resource Centre at Nalanda University to facilitate research on the Mekong Ganga deltaic region.

The Ministers welcomed the offer of Lao PDR to chair the next MGC meeting. They accepted the recommendation of the SOM that further meetings of the MGC would be chaired by MGC countries in alphabetical order.

The Ministers agreed to try to schedule the future MGC meetings on the sidelines of annual ASEAN-India Foreign Ministerial meetings.

New Delhi
September 4, 2012

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MEA2045720445List of Documents signed during the State Visit of the President of Tajikistan03-09-2012 14:19:05MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/20445/List+of+Documents+signed+during+the+State+Visit+of+the+President+of+Tajikistan
MEA2044520454Joint Statement on Strategic Partnership between the Republic of India and the Republic of Tajikistan

The President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, is on a State Visit to India from 1 to 4 September 2012 at the invitation of the President of the Republic of India, His Excellency Mr. Pranab Mukherjee. This is President Mr.
Emomali Rahmon’s fifth visit to India. In New Delhi, H.E. President Mr. Emomali Rahmon held detailed discussions with the Prime Minister of India H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh and met the President of Republic of India on 3 September. The President of India is hosting
a state banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. Vice President H.E. Mr. Hamid Ansari and Leader of Opposition Ms. Sushma Swaraj also called on the President of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon. The visiting dignitary also addressed a business meeting
organized jointly by ASSOCHAM, CII and FICCI.

The Indian side noted that the visit of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Emomali Rahmon was a welcome continuation of the tradition of regular exchange of high level visits between India and Tajikistan. The visit also testified to the
close historical and deep cultural ties between the two countries.

The sides reviewed the current status of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international issues. They noted the similarity of their positions on bilateral, regional and global issues. Both sides agreed that the Foreign Ministries and
other line ministries of both countries would continue to hold regular consultations, including exchange of visits. They noted with satisfaction that the discussions took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

The sides noted with satisfaction the broadening of the legal framework for bilateral cooperation in recent years. In this context, they welcomed the signing of bilateral agreements in a range of spheres including textiles, culture, education, sport, health
and labour. They also agreed to discuss and finalize in the near future more bilateral documents in spheres such as air services; double taxation; consular issues; justice; mining; social security; finance and banking; industry and energy; and transport and
communications.

The sides noted that India and Tajikistan had stakes in mutual progress, prosperity and regional peace and stability, and expressed their determination to impart greater dynamism to the relationship through all-round cooperation and engagement. They decided
to elevate their bilateral relations to the level of a long-term strategic partnership. This partnership will encompass cooperation in a wide spectrum of areas, including political, economic, education, health, human resource development, defence, counter-terrorism,
science and technology, culture and tourism.

The sides reviewed trade and economic cooperation between India and Tajikistan, and agreed that the current level of bilateral trade was well below potential. They underscored the need for increasing the volume and base of mutual trade through concrete
supportive measures and mechanisms. They agreed that the Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific & Technical Cooperation was an important mechanism for implementation of agreements and memoranda agreed upon, and underlined the need to increase the
quality and level of trade and economic cooperation. They expressed confidence that the next session of the Joint Commission scheduled later in the year, would address these issues and make constructive recommendations.

Both sides expressed satisfaction over the signing of the Protocol on bilateral negotiations for Tajikistan’s access to the World Trade Organization. The Indian side stated it would hope to cooperate with Tajikistan closely in this world organization and
expressed confidence that the integration of Tajikistan into the global economy would enhance bilateral trade cooperation.

The sides emphasized the importance of connectivity between the two countries and noted that the lack of surface transport corridor was a constraint to mutual trade, cultural, tourist and other exchanges between the peoples. They agreed to work towards
establishment of transport corridors in cooperation with countries of the region. The sides also discussed implementation of projects such as the Trans-Afghan corridor, INSTC and the project to establish the Central Asia-Persian Gulf corridor. They noted that
the implementation of these projects may considerably cut down the distance and costs for transportation of goods between India and Tajikistan, as well as provide third countries in these projects the opportunity to integrate into the regional system of transport
connectivity.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the resumption of direct flights between the two countries under the Civil Aviation Agreement. The Tajik side expressed gratitude to the Indian side for permission to increase the number of flights per week. The Indian
side welcomed commercial flight operations by Tajik aviation companies on the Delhi-Dushanbe sector and hoped that the frequency of these flights would be further increased and would facilitate bilateral trade and broader people-to-people contacts. The Tajik
side invited Indian air carriers to also operate flights to Tajikistan.

The sides agreed to improve the trade and investment climate and create favourable conditions in order to expand mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries. The sides called upon their respective business communities to avail of opportunities
for mutually beneficial investments in major joint projects in promising sectors such as information technology and e-connectivity; pharmaceuticals and biotechnology; textiles, silk and leather goods; mining and exploration; hydropower and renewable energy
sources; and tourism. In this context, the Tajik side invited Indian private and public sector investments in free economic zones [FEZs] in the territory of Tajikistan. The Indian side agreed to mount a delegation to these FEZs to study the available investment
opportunities.

The sides discussed cooperation in the banking and financial sectors and agreed that further consultations would take place at the expert level to resolve specific issues and discuss fresh initiatives for cooperation.

The Tajik side expressed its deep appreciation to the Indian side for ensuring the completion of modernization of the Varzob hydel power station near Dushanbe. The sides stated their intention to further strengthen cooperation in the energy sector, including
in hydel power, solar and other forms of renewable energy and to start discussions on a regional energy infrastructure network.

India, as part of its ongoing developmental partnership with Tajikistan, announced new development projects including: an IT Centre of excellence; an e-network, including tele-education and tele-medicine; medical centres; language laboratories; an Entrepreneurship
Development Institute; supply of agricultural machinery; and the implementation of a package of small development projects [SDPs]. Both sides agreed to set up an India-Tajik Friendship Hospital in Tajikistan. The sides agreed to consult at the expert level
for early implementation of the package of new projects in Tajikistan.

The sides also agreed to cooperate in principle in concrete projects, in promising spheres like poultry & animal husbandry; hydropower plants; railway lines; textiles; mining; and sharing of science & technical information in agriculture and farming.

The sides expressed satisfaction at the continuing expansion of defence cooperation. Noting that the recently concluded Joint Working Group meeting in Dushanbe provided a fillip to this cooperation, they expressed confidence that this cooperation would
contribute to regional security and stability. The Tajik side expressed gratitude for India’s assistance in defence capacity building and infrastructure and welcomed India’s further contribution in this strategic sector of cooperation.

The sides noted the untapped potential of scientific and technical cooperation between the scientific centers of the two countries on organization of joint research in the spheres of biotechnology, material science, solar power, laser technologies, mining
of minerals and automation of production process. The sides agreed to intensify contacts between educational institutions of both countries and to increase cooperation in human resources development.

The sides emphasized the centrality of culture in further deepening close bonds between the peoples of India and Tajikistan and expressed satisfaction with the signature of the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for the period 2012-2015. They also agreed
to undertake joint film production and training in cinematography.

In keeping with its commitment to developing human resource capacity in Tajikistan, the Indian side offered to increase the existing number of training slots under the ITEC Programme to 150 slots. The Tajik side welcomed this gesture.

Reaffirming that international terrorism is a threat to global peace and security, the sides condemned those who support terrorism and underscored that those aiding, abetting and sheltering terrorists were as guilty of acts of terrorism as their actual
perpetrators. They stressed the need to work jointly towards eliminating the menace of terrorism including exchange of information, data, financing of terrorism and related matters. They emphasized the need for enhanced dialogue between security agencies.
Both sides further emphasized the need for adoption of "Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism" by the UN General Assembly in the near future. They agreed to continue consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and to coordinate their
efforts within the framework of the JWG on Combating International Terrorism in this regard. With the tragic losses suffered in the November 2008 terrorist attacks in Mumbai particularly in mind, both sides called for the active prosecution of the authors
of such crimes and their accomplices, and urged that they be brought to justice expeditiously.

The sides discussed the situation in Afghanistan and the challenges emanating from the region, including the existence of safe havens and sanctuaries for terrorism and drug trafficking, and reaffirmed the importance of sustained peace and stability in the
country, particularly, in the context of the proposed withdrawal of ISAF forces in 2014 from Afghanistan. The sides stressed that the issue of restoring peace and stability in Afghanistan was inseparably linked with regional security. The sides emphasized
their support to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in establishing an independent, peaceful, democratic and prosperous Afghanistan. The sides emphasized the need to promote the process of restoration of peace in Afghanistan with participation
of all sides concerned. The sides agreed that regional economic cooperation through implementation of infrastructure and other projects, proposed during the RECCA V Conference in Dushanbe (March 2012) and the Investment Summit in Delhi (June 2012) would play
an effective role in the economic recovery of Afghanistan.

The sides expressed their strong commitment to multilateralism, with the United Nations playing a central role in dealing with global challenges and threats. They reaffirmed their commitment to the reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security
Council, through its expansion in the permanent and non-permanent categories, with increased representation of developing countries in both, in order to improve its efficiency, representativeness, and legitimacy to meet contemporary challenges faced by the
international community. The Tajik side reiterated its support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded Security Council.

The sides underscored the importance of further strengthening cooperation in the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), taking into account the active participation of both sides in the activities of this Organization. The Tajik side
reiterated support to India's full membership in this regional grouping.

The Indian side welcomed the entry into force of the Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia and was prepared to extend necessary security assurances.

His Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, thanked the Indian leadership and the people of India for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to him and to the Tajikistan delegation during his State Visit to India. He
invited his Excellency Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, President of India, to visit Tajikistan. The President of Tajikistan also invited His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India, to visit Tajikistan. The invitations were accepted with pleasure.

A trilateral meeting between the Deputy Foreign Ministers of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Foreign Secretary of the Republic of India was held in Tehran on August 26, 2012.

The objective of the meeting was to explore ways to expand trade and transit cooperation, including investment, among the three countries starting with the Chahbahar Port. It was agreed that a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprising representatives of the
three countries would meet within next three months at Chahbahar to take the discussions forward. It was agreed that the exact date of the meeting would be decided through diplomatic channels.

Tehran
August 26, 2012

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MEA2038020444Joint Communique on the First round of Bilateral Political Consultations between India and El Slavador03-09-2012 14:13:09MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/20444/Joint+Communique+on+the+First+round+of+Bilateral+Political+Consultations+between+India+and+El+Slavador
MEA2044420306Joint Statement on the First India-CELAC Troika Foreign Ministers Meeting

The First Meeting of the India-CELAC Troika Foreign Ministers was held in New Delhi on August 7, 2012. The External Affairs Minister of India Shri S.M. Krishna led the Indian delegation. The CELAC Troika was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Chile
Mr. Alfredo Moreno Charme, the pro-tempore President of CELAC. The Foreign Minister of Venezuela Mr. Nicolas Maduro and the Vice Foreign Minister of Cuba, Mr. Rogelio Sierra participated in the meeting as members of the Troika.

During the discussions, both sides undertook a comprehensive review of India-CELAC relations. They also discussed regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. The discussions were aimed at, inter alia, strengthening the multifaceted bilateral cooperation
between India and CELAC, coordinating responses to regional issues and addressing international challenges including UN reforms, the international financial crisis, climate change and international terrorism.

The Foreign Ministers of India and the CELAC Troika expressed satisfaction at the First Meeting of the India-CELAC Troika Foreign Ministerial Dialogue after the commencement of CELAC in December 2011. They expressed their deep appreciation at the expanding
relations between India and countries in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and reiterated their desire to work together bearing in mind each sides' respective development priorities based on the common shared values of democracy, freedom, equality
and justice.

The Foreign Ministers agreed to enhance exchange of visits at all levels including at the Summit level leading towards realisation of a 'Strategic Partnership' between India and CELAC. They underscored the need to meet every year alternately in India and
the CELAC country holding the pro-tempore Presidency.

Trade and Investment

The Ministers expressed satisfaction over the growth of commercial, economic and investment relations between India and CELAC. They recognised that although trade between India and the region had crossed US$ 25 billion in 2012, it was still far below potential.
The Ministers underscored the need to tap the available potential through diversification of trade, participation in each other's trade fairs, exchange of business delegations, construction of regulatory frameworks, relaxation in movement of goods, services
and people and through strengthening air connectivity and shipping links. In this regard, they agreed to set up a India-CELAC Business Council and a India-CELAC CEOs Forum. These business related institutional mechanisms are expected to meet regularly and
submit recommendations towards further enhancement of such links between India and CELAC.

Energy

Both sides recognised that energy security holds the key to economic development. Considering the importance attached by both sides to bilateral cooperation in the sphere of energy security including that in renewable energy, both sides agreed to set up
an Energy Forum to address this important issue.

Minerals

The Indian side recognised that Latin America is endowed with abundant and diverse mineral resources which could help to sustain India's growth rate. Both sides agreed to work towards providing for value addition in the exchange of commodities through direct
trading and by setting up of manufacturing units. The Indian side offered to provide technical know-how to the CELAC countries in mapping of their geological resources by using India's remote sensing satellites.

Both sides highlighted the growing importance of the mineral trade, and in this regard, emphasized on the need to promote mutual investment opportunities to contribute to the economic growth of both India and CELAC countries.

Agriculture

Both sides agreed to work towards providing for food security for their people. In this regard, they expressed their desire to deepen cooperation through the setting up of a mutually beneficial partnership in the agriculture farming and food processing
sector. They discussed the need to work together on agricultural research through institutional linkages and by exchanging ideas on their agriculture practices. In this regard, they agreed to set up an Agricultural Expert Group which is expected to submit
recommendations to Ministers.

Science and Technology

Recognising that cooperation in science and technology is crucial for addressing poverty and developmental challenges that confront them, the Ministers reiterated their commitment to work together by synergising their technological strength and capabilities.
They agreed to set up a Science Forum that will consider a programme of action for joint research in the areas relating to medicine, agriculture, astronomy, information technology and renewable energy, in particular bio-fuels, solar, wind and hydro energy.
India offered to assist CELAC countries in the launch of low-cost satellites for communications as well as for weather forecasting.

Both sides welcomed the ongoing cooperation in the field of technical training and capacity building and noted the potential for further enhancement for cooperation in this area. They agreed to initiate various projects related to tele-education, e-governance
and tele-medicine that would cover the entire Latin America and Caribbean region.

Culture, Education and people-to-people contacts

Both sides reiterated the importance attached by them to encourage people-to-people contacts and reaffirmed their determination to cooperate closely in this field. They agreed to strengthen cultural and academic linkages, including between the Diplomatic
Institutes in India and CELAC countries. They underscored the need to conclude bilateral Air Services Agreements to enhance direct air links between India and CELAC in order to promote tourism and business.

Regional and Multilateral

Both sides discussed a broad range of regional and international issues of mutual interest. They exchanged views on the development in South Asia and Latin America and Caribbean region. They acknowledged that their cooperation in the UN and other multilateral
fora has always been close and determined by common interests. They agreed to work together on common global challenges in the interest of developing countries by maintaining coordinated approach on UN reforms, financial crisis, climate change and international
terrorism.

Both sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in the joint endeavour of the international community in eliminating the menace of international terrorism. They urged the international community to adopt
a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the earliest.

Both sides recognised that climate change is a global challenge with strong economic, environmental and social dimensions. They acknowledged the efforts of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) for a renewed political commitment towards
Sustainable Development to achieve poverty eradication through a balanced integration of economic, social and environmental aspects.

The Foreign Ministers of the CELAC Troika thanked the External Affairs Minister of India for the warm hospitality extended to the CELAC delegation and for the arrangements made for the First India-CELAC Troika Foreign Ministerial Dialogue. They agreed that
the next meeting of the India-CELAC Foreign Ministerial Dialogue will take place in 2013 under the Cuban Presidency of CELAC.

The pro-Tempore President and Troika Foreign Ministers of CELAC will present this Joint Statement in next meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Community that will be held in September 2012 in New York on the sidelines of UNGA.

New Delhi
August 7, 2012

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MEA2030620274List of documents signed during the visit of Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia

Sl. No.

Name of the MoU/Agreement/Treaty/Protocol

Indonesian Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Avoidance of Double Taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income

Dr. R. M. Marty Natalegawa, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister

2.

Agreed Minutes of the 4th Joint Commission Meeting between Republic of India and Republic of Indonesia

Dr. R. M. Marty Natalegawa, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister

New Delhi
July 27, 2012

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MEA2027420201Joint Statement by India–Pakistan Working Group on Cross-LOC CBMs

In pursuance of the decision taken at the Foreign Secretary level talks on 4-5 July 2012, meeting of India-Pakistan Joint Working Group on Cross-LoC CBMs was held in Islamabad on 19 July 2012. Pakistan delegation was headed by Ms. Zehra Akbari, Director
General (South Asia), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Indian side was led by Mr. Y. K. Sinha, Joint Secretary (PAI), Ministry of External Affairs.

The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere.

The two sides reviewed the progress since the last meeting of the Joint Working Group on Cross-LoC CBMs and discussed modalities for strengthening and streamlining the existing trade and travel arrangements across the LoC. They also discussed modalities
for introducing additional Cross-LoC CBMs.

Islamabad
July 19, 2012

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MEA2020120113List of documents signed between India and Singapore during the State visit of Prime Minster of Singapore

S.No

Agreement/MoU

Indian signatory

Singapore signatory

Remarks

1

Memorandum of Understanding between Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India and Ministry of Education, Government of Singapore concerning Cooperation in the field of Vocational Education and Skills Development

H.E. Shri Malikarjun Kharge Minister of Labour & Employment

H.E. Mr. Heng Swee Keat,
Minister of Education

This MoU will facilitate cooperation in field of Vocational Education and Skills Development

2

Extension of the Bilateral Agreement between the Ministry of Defence, Government of India and the Ministry of Defence, Government of Singapore for the Conduct of Joint Military Training & Exercises in India

This Agreement would enable continuation of armed forces joint training and exercises

3

Memorandum of Understanding between Department of Training & Technical Education, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi and Institute of Technical Education, Singapore on Cooperation in the field of Vocational Education
and Skills Development

Shri Praveen Kumar Tripathi, Chief Secretary,
Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi

During the second-round of the resumed dialogue process, the Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan met in New Delhi on July 4-5, 2012 for bilateral talks on Peace and Security including CBMs, Jammu & Kashmir and Promotion of Friendly Exchanges.

The talks were held in a frank and constructive atmosphere. Both sides reiterated their desire to carry forward the dialogue process in a purposeful and result-oriented manner.

The issue of Peace and Security, including CBMs, was discussed in a comprehensive manner. Both sides emphasized the need to promote greater trust and mutual understanding through constructive dialogue.

The Foreign Secretaries reviewed the ongoing implementation of the already adopted Nuclear and Conventional CBMs. It was decided that separate meetings of the Expert Level Groups on Nuclear and Conventional CBMs will be held to discuss implementation and
strengthening of the existing CBMs and suggest additional mutually acceptable steps that could build greater trust and confidence between the two countries, thereby contributing to peace and security. The dates for the meetings of Expert Level Groups will
be determined through diplomatic channels.

The Foreign Secretaries noted that both countries recognize that terrorism poses a continuing threat to peace and security. They reaffirmed the strong commitment of the two countries to fight and eliminate terrorism in an effective and comprehensive manner
so as to eliminate the scourge in all its forms and manifestations.

The Foreign Secretaries had a comprehensive exchange of views on the issue of Jammu & Kashmir and agreed to continue discussions in a purposeful and forward looking manner with the view to finding a peaceful solution by narrowing divergences and building
convergences.

Both sides recognized the need to strengthen the existing Cross-LoC CBMs for streamlining the arrangements to facilitate travel and trade across LOC. They decided to convene a meeting of the Working Group on Cross-LoC CBMs on July 19, 2012 in Islamabad
to recommend steps for strengthening and streamlining and effectively implementing the existing trade and travel arrangements and propose modalities for introducing additional cross LoC CBMs.

Both sides underlined the importance of greater people to people contacts and friendly exchanges in building a relationship of trust and friendship between the two countries. They noted that the text of a revised bilateral Visa Agreement has already been
finalized and decided to work for its early signing. They emphasized the importance of greater parliamentary exchanges; promotion of cooperation in various fields including facilitating visits to Religious Shrines and cessation of hostile propaganda against
each other.

The Foreign Secretaries also emphasized the need to promote media and sports contacts.

During his visit the Foreign Secretary of Pakistan will be calling on Minister of External Affairs of India, H.E. Mr. S.M. Krishna and National Security Adviser HE Mr. Shivshankar Menon.

The Foreign Secretaries will meet again in Islamabad, on a date to be decided through diplomatic channels, to prepare for the meeting of the External Affairs / Foreign Ministers in September 2012.

Under the resumed dialogue process between India and Pakistan, talks on Sir Creek issue were held in New Delhi on June 18-19, 2012. The Indian delegation was led by Surveyor General of India Dr Swarna Subba Rao. The Pakistan delegation was led by Additional
Secretary in the Ministry of Defence Rear Admiral Farrokh Ahmad. The Pakistan delegation met Shri Shekhar Agarwal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Defence.

The talks were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere.

The two sides discussed the land boundary in the Sir Creek area and also delimitation of International Maritime Boundary between India and Pakistan. They reiterated their desire to find an amicable solution of the Sir Creek issue through sustained and result
oriented dialogue.

They agreed to hold the next round of the talks on Sir Creek issue in Pakistan at mutually convenient dates, to be determined through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
June 19, 2012

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MEA1991819919G20 Los Cabos Summit Declaration26-06-2012 14:02:18MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/19919/G20+Los+Cabos+Summit+Declaration
MEA1991919917Joint Statement 2012 U.S.-India Strategic DialogueIndia’s Minister of External Affairs Shri S.M. Krishna and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met in Washington, DC, on June 13, 2012, for the third annual U.S.-India Strategic Dialogue. The leaders reflected on the remarkable expansion and growth
of the bilateral relationship since the inaugural Strategic Dialogue in 2010. They committed to further broaden and deepen the U.S.-India global strategic partnership and charted a vision for the future, centered on promoting shared prosperity, peace and stability.

On the margins of this Strategic Dialogue, an unprecedented number of sub-dialogues have taken place, including the Global Issues Forum, S&T Joint Commission Meeting, the Counterterrorism Joint Working Group, the Higher Education Dialogue,co-chaired by Secretary
Clinton and Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, Cyber Consultations, the Information and Communications Technology Working Group, the Women’s Empowerment Dialogue, Homeland Security Consultations and other events. In addition, U.S. Defense Secretary
Leon Panetta visited India on June 5-6, 2012.

Recognizing that the India-U.S. relationship draws its strength and dynamism from shared values, the breadth and diversity of the engagement and growing links between the people of the two countries, leaders of both countries have placed promotion of closer
ties between the people, private collaborations and public-private partnerships at the center of the Strategic Dialogue.

Strategic Cooperation

The United States and India have engaged in comprehensive regional consultations that touched on nearly every region of the world.

The United States and India have a shared vision for peace, stability and prosperity in Asia, the Indian Ocean region and the Pacific region and are committed to work together, and with others in the region, for the evolution of an open, balanced and inclusive
architecture. They reaffirmed their support for regional forums like East Asia Summit, ASEAN Regional Forum and ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Plus, and committed to regular consultations in this regard. The two leaders also welcomed the two rounds of trilateral
dialogue between India, the United States and Japan, launched after the second Strategic Dialogue in July 2011, and the ongoing East Asia Dialogue. The United States welcomed India's actions to strengthen regional economic connectivity. Both sides intend to
continue to support efforts that promote regional trade, transit, and energy linkages. Secretary Clinton welcomed India’s growing engagement in the Asia Pacific. They agreed to further enhance their consultations on the Indian Ocean region. Minister Krishna
welcomed the U.S. interest in becoming a dialogue partner with the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC), and conveyed that as the current Chair, India will take it forward with other IOR-ARC members.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna affirmed the importance of maritime security, unimpeded commerce, and freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law, and the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes. The two sides agreed to continue to consult
closely on key global issues, including bilateral exchanges and information sharing in areas such as counternarcotics, countering piracy, maritime safety, and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief. Determined to curb the problem of piracy off the coast of
Somalia, both governments planned to improve coordination of their anti-piracy efforts. They also planned to cooperate in addressing the problem of hostage-taking by pirates.

The two leaders stressed the importance of sustained international commitment to Afghanistan as it assumes full responsibility for governance, development and security. Noting that India and the United States have each signed Strategic Partnership Agreements
with Afghanistan, Minister Krishna and Secretary Clinton welcomed their productive joint consultations on Afghanistan and intend to seek new opportunities to intensify their consultation, coordination and cooperation to promote a stable, democratic, united,
sovereign and prosperous Afghanistan. They intend to explore opportunities to work together to promote Afghanistan’s development, including in areas such as agriculture, mining, energy, capacity building and infrastructure. Noting the importance of women’s
economic empowerment for Afghanistan’s economic success, they plan to work to further increase their ongoing vocational training and empowerment initiatives. To support their efforts in Afghanistan, they agreed to hold a trilateral dialogue with the Government
of Afghanistan.

They welcomed the announcement at the 2012 NATO Summit in Chicago of progress in the security transition process and the participants’ commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s security and development needs into the "transformation decade” (2015-2024). Secretary
Clinton welcomed India’s hosting of the Delhi Summit on Investment in Afghanistan on June 28 in New Delhi and both leaders looked forward to the July 8 Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan. The two leaders discussed the vision for enhanced regional connectivity
through South and Central Asia. They reiterated the importance of taking concrete steps to promote expanded private investment and trade in Afghanistan. They acknowledged the critical importance of improving Afghanistan’s integration and linkages within the
South and Central Asia region and welcomed the ministerial meeting in Kabul on June 14. They acknowledged that success in Afghanistan requires, in addition to building up Afghanistan’s capacity to defend itself, an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned reconciliation
process. They reiterated that success in Afghanistan and regional and global security require elimination of safe havens and infrastructure for terrorism and violent extremism in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The two leaders agreed to continue the dialogue on West Asia and Central Asia.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna expressed satisfaction with the progress in defense relations, which is an important dimension of their strategic partnership. They noted that India and the United States have conducted many military exercises and exchanges
in the last six years across all uniformed service branches as well as with civilian relief and development agencies. The two leaders noted that Government of India has awarded defense contracts worth $9 billion in recent years to U.S. companies. Reflecting
the United States’ support for India’s continued military modernization, both sides reaffirmed their desire to strengthen defense cooperation through increased technology transfer, collaborative joint research and development, and co-production of defense
items. They also welcomed the progress made in the Defense Policy Group (DPG) and the resumption of the Political Military consultations between the two sides.

Reflective of the United States’ deep commitment to pursuing the fullest possible accounting of all Americans missing from past conflicts, the United States appreciated Government of India’s support for the renewal of missions to recover the remains of missing
U.S. service members killed in air crashes during World War II.

The two sides expressed satisfaction with the Strategic Security Dialogue held in February 2012 in Washington on a wide range of issues on the international arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation agenda and their strengthened consultations in various
multilateral forums. Both sides welcomed the successful conclusion of the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit in March 2012 and expressed continued support for the early start of negotiations on a Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty in the Conference on Disarmament.

The two sides welcomed progress towards the full implementation of the historic Civil Nuclear Initiative including the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Westinghouse and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) committing both sides to negotiate
an Early Works Agreement for the preliminary licensing and site development work associated with construction of the new Westinghouse reactors in Gujarat state, and the ongoing progress between General Electric-Hitachi and NPCIL on their Memorandum of Understanding.

India expressed appreciation for the strong support extended by the United States for India’s full membership in the four multilateral export control regimes – Nuclear Suppliers Group, Missile Technology Control Regime, Wassenaar Arrangement and Australia Group.
The United States welcomed steps India has taken in pursuing outreach with each of the regimes.

Counter-terrorism, Intelligence, Homeland Security and Cyber Security

Building on the progress in cooperation on counter-terrorism and related homeland security issues since the inaugural Homeland Security Dialogue Ministerial between Home Minister Chidambaram and Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano in May 2011, the United
States and India committed to implementation of a detailed action plan intended to share best practices, facilitate the exchange of operational approaches, and promote the development of concrete capacity building programs to secure our respective countries.
The two governments also plan to exchange visits across the full range of homeland security issues to address port and border issues, transportation, illicit finance and counterfeit currency, cyber crime, megacity policing and capacity building.

The United States and India committed to continue to collaborate closely on technology approaches to security issues, including science and technology arrangements, to foster closer cooperation. They noted progress in cooperation and exchanges under the Memorandum
of Understanding on cooperation between the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) of the U.S. and India, including the first bilateral exercise to be scheduled in the fall of 2012.

Recognizing the growing threats and challenges in cyberspace, they welcomed the second round of Cyber Consultations held on June 4, led by their respective national security councils, during which the U.S. and India exchanged views and best practices on a broad
range of cyber issues in the interest of advancing security and the effective and timely sharing of digital evidence and information to support counter-terrorism and law enforcement. The delegations agreed to form a working group chaired by the State Department
and the Ministry of External Affairs to further discuss the issue of international norms in cyberspace and global Internet governance. The group would provide a forum for consultations will also in advance of important international events related to cyberspace.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna welcomed the decision by India’s Ministry of Human Resource Development to set up a Center of Excellence in Cyber Security and the dialogue between leading Indian and U.S. universities to enter into cooperation in the
proposed Center.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna lauded the growing collaboration on counter-terrorism in the 13th meeting of the India-U.S. Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism held on June 1 in Washington D.C. and the outcomes of the 2nd meeting of the Coordinating
Committee of Global Forum for Counter Terrorism (GCTF) held in Istanbul on June 6-7. They reiterated their commitment to further strengthening bilateral and multilateral counter-terrorism cooperation, including through intelligence sharing, information exchange,
operational cooperation, and access to advanced counter-terrorism technology and equipment. They reiterated their commitment to bringing to justice the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attack in November 2008 and to comprehensive sharing of information on
the investigations and trials relating to that attack.

Energy and Climate Change

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna welcomed the progress in India-U.S. cooperation in the energy sector, including in the areas of clean and renewable energy, and energy conservation and efficiency.

They welcomed the selection of three public-private consortia for funding under the U.S.-India Joint Clean Energy R&D Center, announced by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and President Obama in November 2010, with annual commitment of $5 million each from
the two governments and matching private contributions from the winning consortia, to promote research and development in the areas of advanced biofuels, solar energy and energy efficiency in buildings.

They also welcomed the new five-year, $20 million technical assistance partnership between USAID and the Indian Ministry of Power and the Indian Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to accelerate the scale-up of clean energy technologies.

They noted that the Partnership to Advance Clean Energy (PACE), launched by President Obama and Prime Minister Singh in November 2009, has mobilized more than $ 1.7 billion towards a wide range of clean energy projects. They expressed appreciation for the efforts
of several U.S. agencies to support development and deployment of clean energy projects. They confirmed that both countries would continue to exchange best practices on low-carbon growth strategies to support a greener and more prosperous future.

They welcomed the productive discussions between India and the United States on energy security in May 2012 and planned to continue this conversation, through the Energy Dialogue and other appropriate forums. The two sides also agreed to continue exchanges
on assessment of shale and other unconventional gas resource potential in India and on hydrocarbon potential in the Indian Ocean and other regions, and its impact on global energy security. Recognizing the importance of natural gas as a bridge fuel to a clean
energy future, the United States reiterated its support as India seeks to secure stable supplies of natural gas. Minister Krishna stressed India’s interest in import of LNG from the U.S. and requested the U.S. Government to permit such exports to India.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna acknowledged broad collaboration on a range of bilateral climate change related programs, including those aimed at addressing adaptation to climate change, sustainable management of forests including reduction of emissions
from deforestation and forest degradation, the U.S.-India task force on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and our respective domestic research programs in the area of black carbon.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna commended the progress made at the Durban climate change conference in December 2011. They also affirmed their commitment to address climate change at the multilateral level, including through the work of the Ad hoc Working
Group on Durban Platform for Enhanced Actions under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. They stressed the need to enhance international cooperation under appropriate multilateral bodies to address emissions from the international civil aviation
and maritime sectors.

Education and Development

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna applauded the expansion of the U.S.-India Higher Education Dialogue, which made significant strides in fostering cooperation between the two countries in higher education, research and innovation, and community colleges.
The United States and India plan to hold the next annual Higher Education Dialogue in 2013 in India.

They welcomed the announcement of the award of the first eight grants under the Obama-Singh Knowledge Initiative, which aims to strengthen teaching, research, and administration of both U.S. and Indian institutions through university linkages and junior faculty
development. The next call for proposals will be announced in July 2012, with both governments having committed $5 million dollars over 5 years.

The two leaders also applauded efforts by both governments to continue to expand educational opportunities and cooperation, including through the Fulbright Nehru Program for students and scholars. These include India’s goal of establishing 100 community colleges
in India; the announcement of the C.V. Raman Fellowship, under which the first tranche of 300 junior faculty members would be placed for post-doctoral research in American higher education institutions; India’s launch of a higher education web portal to provide
a platform to disseminate information and foster educational and research collaboration and exchanges, such as India’s new Connect to India program to facilitate more American students in Indian universities; and new private sector pledges in support of the
United States’ Passport to India Initiative, which seeks to increase the number of American students participating in internships in India.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna noted that the third meeting of the Women's Empowerment Dialogue held in February 2012, focused on women's social and economic empowerment, political participation, early childhood education, skill development of women
and girls, and strengthening of institutional linkages and exchanges. The U.S. welcomed India’s proposal to organize a regional South Asia Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference that will bring key policy makers, women entrepreneurs, civil society organizations,
private sector institutions, and corporations together to work on concrete actions to expand women’s economic participation in the region and beyond.

Economic, Trade and Agriculture

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna noted that bilateral trade in goods and services continues to grow and will likely reach $100 billion by the end of 2012. They lauded the launch of the first Infrastructure Debt Fund in India, with a corpus of $2 billion,
through the participation of Indian and U.S. financial institutions and welcomed the March 2012 visit to India by U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson with a private sector delegation of infrastructure companies as important steps to strengthen bilateral trade
and investment in India’s planned investment of $1 trillion in its infrastructure sector.

The two leaders recognized that steps should be taken promote greater bilateral trade and investment flows, including facilitating greater movement of professionals, investors and business travelers, and encouraging research and innovation that further strengthen
economic partnership between the two countries.

The Secretary and Minister called for an expeditious conclusion to negotiations toward a high standard Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) as a key part of the effort to deepen the economic relationship, improve investor confidence, and support economic growth
in both countries. They welcomed consultations by experts from both governments on manufacturing best practices and policy.

They welcomed the decision of the two governments to launch a dialogue on Sustainable Manufacturing and another on Enhancing Cooperation in Standards under the Commercial Dialogue. They noted the conclusion in February 2012 of a Memorandum of Understanding
between the Ministry of Labour and Employment and U.S. Department of Labor for skill development, youth development, occupational safety and health, and mine safety and health.

The two leaders reiterated their governments’ efforts to foster cooperation in research, development and innovation in agriculture, especially on agricultural productivity, envisaged in the Agricultural Dialogue. They welcomed the recent agreements between
agricultural universities in India and U.S. universities for agricultural research, and the proposed collaboration to create a Regional Center of Excellence at the National Institute of Plant Health Management in Hyderabad.

Secretary Clinton welcomed Minister Krishna’s proposal for a "Conversation between Cities” later this year to discuss urban challenges and their solutions in the 21st century and to foster greater economic ties, understanding and friendship between the people
of the two countries.

Science & Technology, Health and Innovation

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna reviewed the outcomes of the second Science and Technology Joint Commission Meeting, held on June 11, which covered bilateral research cooperation on basic and applied sciences, atmospheric, environment and earth sciences,
health and medical services, STEM education, facilitating technology commercialization for societal impact and retention and advancement of women in science and engineering. They applauded the first award of grants by the U.S.-India Science and Technology
Endowment Board for entrepreneurial projects that commercialize technologies to improve health and empower citizens, which include a partnership to create a cold-chain storage solution to keep farmers’ produce fresh. They noted the ongoing activities of U.S.-India
Science & Technology Forum, now in its eleventh year, which have brought together 11,000 Indian and U.S. scientists and technologists.

The two leaders welcomed the rich array of public and private science and technology cooperation between U.S. and Indian institutions and partners.

These include the new initiatives between India’s Department of Science and Technology and U.S .National Science Foundation on a Virtual Institute on Mathematics and Statistical Sciences and DST-NSF Summer Internship; the recent initiative (PC3) of the Department
of Electronics and Information Technology and U.S. NSF to jointly fund collaborations between universities and institutions in the two countries on the application of electronics and IT for societal challenges, which has already resulted in five collaborations
in the areas of wildlife management, air quality, water sustainability, healthcare and smart electric grids; India’s recent commitment of more than $100 million to the California Institute of Technology’s Thirty-Meter Telescope Project; the exchange of weather
and monsoon forecasting, climate change information and global precipitation under the Civil Space Working Group; and the collaborative project of the U.S. National Science Foundation and the Indian Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Science & Technology
to develop a Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory, with a likely contribution of USD 100 million from India. The two sides also intend to explore opportunities for cooperation in the study of groundwater information systems and Decision Support
Systems for optimal management of groundwater resources. The two sides plan to host the next Civil Space Joint Working Group in Washington, D.C. in the summer of 2013.

The two leaders acknowledged the June 9 launch of the Global Ring Network for Advanced Applications Development (GLORIAD), the first direct U.S.-India advanced science and education network supporting enormous data flows between the U.S. and India. Funded by
the U.S. National Science Foundation, and as part of a public-private partnership featuring a $6M contribution by Tata Communications and housed by the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS) of the Tata Institute for Fundamental Research in Bangalore,
the new link is part of the NSF-funded advanced global GLORIAD network. Designed to support the most advanced big-data research today - as well as education and health-related research, GLORIAD's Indian partners at the ICTS are also launching the first open,
science-driven, science-managed network exchange in India.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna lauded the completion of 25 years of the Vaccine Action Programme, a collaborative research venture between the two countries; welcomed the establishment of the Global Disease Detection India Center, announced by Prime
Minister Dr. Singh and President Obama in November 2010; the proposed collaboration between the Department of Biotechnology of India and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on stem cell regenerative medicine research; and collaboration between
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Diabetes Research. These are part of the wide-ranging collaboration between the two countries in the health sector.

The Secretary and Minister appreciated the December announcement of the USAID and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) partnership to establish the Millennium Alliance, an innovative development concept to leverage Indian creativity,
expertise, and resources to support solutions to benefit vulnerable populations across India and around the world.

The two sides plan to hold an Innovation Roundtable on development challenges and solutions in New Delhi in the later part of 2012. The last roundtable was held in September 2010.

Global Partnership

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna commended the progress the two sides have made in implementing the initiatives for international partnership for development and capacity building announced by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and President Obama in November
2010.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna took note of the March release of an open-source web portal—the "Open Government Platform” (OGPL)—developed under the India-U.S. Dialogue on Open Government. OGPL allows any nation to download free software and create
a site that provides its citizens access to government data for innovation, economic development, and transparency. Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna welcomed OGPL’s planned extension to additional countries, starting with Rwanda.

They welcomed the progress in their collaborative efforts to support agricultural development in Africa through initially offering training at Indian agricultural institutions through USAID support to Kenya, Liberia and Malawi.

They also welcomed progress in the initiative for capacity building and training for election management in interested countries.

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna lauded the initiative of the U.S. and India to host, along with the Government of Ethiopia and UNICEF, a Call to Action on June 14-15 in Washington, D.C., to launch a global movement to end preventable child deaths—A Promise
to Keep—to demonstrate both countries’ commitment to leadership on this global priority, extending toward ambitious targets in 2035.

People –to-people ties

Secretary Clinton welcomed Government of India’s plans to open a Cultural Center in Washington, D.C., noting the powerful U.S.-India connections provided by the nearly three million Indian-Americans in the United States, as well as the more than 100,000 Indian
students studying in U.S. universities.

The United States announced the launch of a new online philanthropy platform, a natural extension of the deep and vibrant people-to-people ties between the United States and India, providing private donors in the United States with information to help make
decisions about contributing to NGOs in India more effectively (ProjectIndiaGiving.org).

Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna appreciated the many actions taken to facilitate the travel of U.S. and Indian citizens, including the planned opening of India’s Atlanta consulate in 2012, the second round of the U.S.-India Consular Dialogue on March
22 in New Delhi, a new interview waiver pilot program to further streamline U.S. visa processing and facilitate legitimate travel between the two countries. The Secretary and Minister discussed various issues relating to inter-country adoptions and expressed
the hope that these would be dealt with in a transparent and humane manner to protect the welfare of adopted children.

They also appreciated the establishment of the "Indian Ministry of Culture Vivekananda Chair” at the University of Chicago and an agreement signed between the Ministry of Culture and the Art Institute of Chicago for the "Vivekananda Memorial Program for Museum
Excellence” for upgrading the skills of Museum Professionals of India as part of commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

The next meeting of the Strategic Dialogue is planned in New Delhi in 2013.

The Defence Secretary level talks between Pakistan and India on Siachen were held at the Ministry of Defence, Rawalpindi from 11 – 12 June 2012. The Pakistan delegation was headed by Ms. Nargis Sethi, Secretary Defence. The Indian delegation was headed
by Mr. Shashi Kant Sharma, Defence Secretary of India.

The Defence Secretary of India called on the Minister for Defence Syed Naveed Qamar.

The talks were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere. Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to make serious, sustained and result oriented efforts for seeking an amicable resolution of Siachen. It was agreed to continue dialogue on Siachen in keeping
with the desire of the leaders of both countries for early resolution of all outstanding issues. Both sides acknowledged that the ceasefire was holding since 2003.

It was agreed that the next round of talks on Siachen will be held in New Delhi on mutually convenient dates, to be fixed through diplomatic channels.

Rawalpindi
June 12, 2012

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MEA1991019905Documents signed during the Official Visit of the Crown Prince of Bahrain to India
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MEA1990519876List of documents signed during State visit of Prime Minister to Myanmar
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MEA1987619893Joint Statement by India and Myanmar on the State visit of Prime Minister of India to Myanmar

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Dr Manmohan Singh, is paying a State visit to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar from May 27 to 29, 2012 at the invitation of the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, U Thein Sein. He is accompanied
by his wife Shrimati Gursharan Kaur.

The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial welcome in Nay Pyi Taw and the President of Myanmar hosted a Banquet in his honour.

The visit of the Prime Minister the first after 25 years is a historic milestone in the relations between India and Myanmar.

The two leaders held a restricted meeting, followed by delegation level talks on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest. The talks were held in a warm, cordial and constructive atmosphere reflecting the close and friendly relations
between the two neighbouring countries and peoples.

The President of Myanmar was assisted by U Wunna Maung Lwin, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs and other Union Ministers and the Myanmar Ambassador to India U Zin Zaw and Senior Government Officials.

The Prime Minister of India and the President of Myanmar comprehensively reviewed the multifaceted bilateral relationship and took stock of developments since the very successful State visit of President U Thein Sein to India in October 2011. They expressed
satisfaction at the ongoing official exchanges and the growing economic, trade and cultural ties, as well as people-to-people exchanges.

The two leaders agreed on a vision for the future in the pursuit of the common good - bilaterally, regionally and globally. They agreed to cooperate in the areas such as border area development, transportation, connectivity, agriculture, trade and investment,
promotion of friendly exchanges and human resource development. They recognized that peace and stability in the region is necessary for development and well-being of the people of their respective countries. In this context, they emphasized the importance
of close cooperation between India and Myanmar and the need to effectively harness their respective resources for the good of the peoples of the two countries.

The Prime Minister of India congratulated the President of Myanmar on the path breaking reform measures taken by the Government of Myanmar towards greater democratisation and national reconciliation. He commended the on-going efforts at political, economic
and social reform, which included negotiation of preliminary peace agreements with several ethnic groups as well as dialogue with various democratic political parties including the National League for Democracy led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. He also expressed
appreciation for the free, fair and peaceful conduct of the recent by-elections.

The Prime Minister of India reiterated India's readiness to extend all necessary assistance in accelerating the country's democratic transition and developing the capacity of democratic institutions such as the Parliament, National Human Rights Commission
and the Media. Recalling the very successful visit of a Parliamentary delegation led by Thura U Shwe Mann, Speaker of Pyithu Hluttaw, to India in December 2011, the Prime Minister conveyed India’s readiness to undertake training programmes for Myanmar Parliamentarians
and staff.

The following instruments for enhancing bilateral cooperation were signed during the visit:

Memorandum of Understanding regarding US$ 500 million Line of Credit

Air Services Agreement between India and Myanmar

Memorandum of Understanding on the India-Myanmar Border Area Development

Memorandum of Understanding on Establishment of Joint Trade and Investment Forum

Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Advance Centre for Agriculture Research and Education (ACARE)

Memorandum of Understanding on Establishment of Rice Bio Park at the Department of Agricultural Research in Nay Pyi Taw

Memorandum of Understanding towards setting up of Myanmar Institute of Information Technology

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between Dagon University and Calcutta University

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies and Indian Council of World Affairs.

Agreement on Cooperation between Myanmar Institute of Strategic and International Studies and Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis. (xi) Cultural Exchange Programme ( 2012-2015)

Memorandum of Understanding on establishing of Border Haats across the border between Myanmar and India.

The two leaders underscored that bilateral relations between India and Myanmar are rooted in shared history and geography, culture and civilization. Welcoming that the range and frequency of engagement between the two countries had intensified significantly
since Myanmar's transition towards a more democratic form of Government in March 2011, they committed to further enhancing these exchanges so as to take bilateral cooperation to a higher level. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent successful
visits from Myanmar including that of the Foreign Minister of Myanmar U Wunna Maung Lwin in January 2012; the Minister of Construction of Myanmar U Khin Maung Myint in February 2012; and from India including the visit of the Minister for Water Resources and
Parliamentary Affairs of India Mr. P.K. Bansal to Myanmar in February 2012. The two sides agreed to continue with the frequent exchanges of visits at the leadership level.

Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to fight the scourge of terrorism and insurgent activity in all its forms and manifestations. Both of them emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between security forces and border guarding agencies
for securing peace, security and stability in the border areas, which was crucial for overall development. In this context, the two leaders welcomed the holding of the first meeting of the bilateral Regional Border Committee whose deliberations were useful
in promoting such cooperation and understanding for better border management. Both leaders reiterated the assurance that territories of either country would not be allowed to be used for activities inimical to the other, including for training, sanctuary and
other operations by terrorist and insurgent organisations and their operatives.

Both leaders also alluded to the importance of sound border management as an intrinsic part of maintaining border security. In this context, they directed that the respective Survey Departments should inspect and maintain boundary pillars in a systematic
manner. They also directed the respective Heads of Survey Department to finalise dates for an early joint inspection of the sectors jointly identified at the 17th National Level Meeting.

Connectivity

The two leaders emphasised the importance of enhancing connectivity between the two countries as a means of promoting commercial, cultural, touristic and other exchanges between the peoples of the two countries. They expressed satisfaction at the steady
progress being made on the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project. They welcomed the finalisation of the site of the Land Customs Station at Zorinpui (Mizoram) following joint inspection by Indian and Myanmar delegations in April 2012. It was noted
that the project would enhance bilateral trade, people to people contact and contribute to the development and prosperity of the people living in the ‘land locked’ North Eastern region of India.

The Prime Minister of India announced that India would undertake the task of repair/ upgradation of 71 bridges on the Tamu- Kalewa friendship Road. The two leaders decided that India would undertake the upgradation of the Kalewa-Yargyi road segment to highway
standard while Myanmar would undertake that of upgradation of the Yargyi-Monywa stretch to highway standard by 2016. This project would help in establishing trilateral connectivity from Moreh in India to Mae Sot in Thailand via Myanmar. The two leaders welcomed
the revival of the Joint Task Force on the Trilateral Highway between India-Myanmar –Thailand. It was agreed that efforts would be made to establish seamless trilateral connectivity by 2016.

Taking into account the importance of enabling people-to-people contacts, the two sides agreed to launch a trans-border bus service from Imphal, India to Mandalay. The two leaders directed the concerned officials from both sides to finalise all modalities
to enable its early operationalisation.

They also welcomed the signing of the new Air Service agreement which would enhance direct air connectivity and facilitate easy business interaction, tourism and people-to people exchanges.

The two leaders decided to constitute a Joint Working Group to determine the technical and commercial feasibility of cross-border rail links and the commercial feasibility of direct shipping links between the two countries.

The two sides also discussed the possibility of Indian participation in development of key infrastructure projects, like Dawei port in Myanmar.

Development Cooperation

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing dimension of development cooperation between the two countries which is being financed under grants and concessional loans amounting to US$ 1.2 billion till date. Taking stock of ongoing projects in
the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, human resource development, industrial development, power, health etc., the two leaders agreed to identify more projects of benefit to the people of Myanmar in future.

Both leaders welcomed the signing of the MoU on the US$ 500 million Line of Credit extended by India to the Government of Myanmar which would pave the way for its early operationalisation. The Line of Credit will be utilised in the infrastructure development
projects, including in the fields of Agriculture and Irrigation, Rail Transportation, and Electric Power in Myanmar.

Identifying the need for special focus on the development and prosperity of the people in bordering areas, the two leaders agreed to cooperate to bring about overall socio-economic development in the border areas by undertaking both infrastructure development
and micro-economic projects, including upgradation of roads and construction of schools, health centres, bridges, agriculture and related training activities in the area in accordance with the MoU on India-Myanmar Border Area Development that was signed during
the visit. The President of Myanmar also welcomed India’s offer of assistance in production of large Cardamom in the Naga Self Administered zone.

Expressing their commitment to enhance cooperation in Science & Technology, the two leaders noted with satisfaction that the first meeting of the India-Myanmar Joint Working Group on Science and Technology was held on April 3, 2012. The Joint Working Group
has identified some priority areas for future cooperation in the fields of agricultural biotechnology, post harvest technology, medical biotechnology, medical research and renewable energy. The two leaders welcomed these decisions and agreed that Myanmar would
prepare specific proposals on some of its priority projects so that they can be taken forward for implementation.

Under a MoU signed during the visit, the two leaders decided to set up the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology with financial and technical assistance from India. The Indian Prime Minister announced continued technical and financial support for
the India-Myanmar Centre for Enhancement of IT Skills in Yangon for a further 5 year period when it will also undergo a technology upgrade. The Indian Prime Minister announced a Fellowship for Myanmar Researchers to work in Indian Universities and Research
Institutions, under which 10 slots would be allocated every year. Each Fellowship would be for 4-6 months duration in the areas of Atmospheric and Earth Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, Mathematical and Computational
Sciences and Physical Sciences.

The Prime Minister of India announced that in keeping with India’s commitment to developing human resource capacity in Myanmar, the existing number of training slots for Myanmar, including under the Indian Economic and Technical Cooperation (ITEC) Programme,
would be doubled from the current 250 to 500. The President of Myanmar welcomed this significant gesture.

The Myanmar President thanked the Indian side for its offer to train Myanmar diplomats in conference management and for the assistance in setting up language laboratories and conference rooms in Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon and e-research centre in Nay Pyi Taw
for the Ministry of Foreign affairs.

The two sides also expressed their commitment to enhance cooperation in the area of Agriculture. The President of Myanmar thanked India for the agricultural machinery that had been gifted to Myanmar under a grant of US$ 10 million and conveyed that the
machinery had been distributed to various locations of Myanmar and is being used for the benefit of Myanmar's farming community. Under the MoU signed during the visit, the two leaders decided to establish the Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education
as a Centre for Excellence using cutting edge technology along with traditional knowledge and ecological conservation with financial and technical assistance from India. They also agreed to set up a Rice Bio Park within the Department of Agricultural Research,
Yezin in Nay Pyi Taw in order to demonstrate available techniques of sustainable rice biomass utilisation. These two institutions together will provide technological and research inputs to the Myanmar farming, academic and business communities. The President
of Myanmar also thanked the Prime Minister for India’s support to the construction of a modern cyclone-proof rice silo within the Model Integrated Farm at Nay Pyi Taw.

The Myanmar side requested for India’s assistance in arranging training programmes/ fellowships in the areas of dairy development, cattle breeding, vaccine technology and assistance in setting up a milk and milk product factory in Shan State. The Indian
side agreed to consider the proposal favourably.

Trade and Investment

Alluding to the mutually agreed target of doubling the bilateral trade by 2015, both leaders emphasized that there is considerable untapped potential for greater trade and urged the business community to capitalize on this potential. Investments by Indian
companies in areas like ports, highways, oil & gas, plantation, manufacturing, hospitality and ICT would be specifically encouraged. In this context, the two leaders underscored the importance of the newly created Trade and Investment Forum in enabling timely
and accurate exchange of information and ideas.

They assured that both Governments would work to identify and remove various impediments to bilateral trade. In this context, they welcomed the establishment of a representative office of the United Bank of India in Yangon as a first step in facilitating
business-friendly banking transactions between the two countries. The Myanmar side welcomed the proposals for the training of Myanmar officials in the Banking sector by Indian banks and for cooperation in the Agriculture Banking sector. Considering the vast
potential for promoting trade between the two countries, both sides agreed that the Reserve Bank of India would sign an MoU with the Central Bank of Myanmar on currency arrangements between India and Myanmar in the near future. Further, the Reserve Bank of
India would also conclude an MoU with the Central Bank of Myanmar to serve as a platform for an exchange of views on issues of mutual interest. The two sides agreed upon sharing of banking experiences and technical know-how from State Bank of India or any
other bank as mutually agreed.

Both leaders urged the business community to enthusiastically participate in each other's trade fairs and also to share information on the prevailing trade and investment policies through organization of seminars and business related events in specific
sectors of mutual interest. In this context, they welcomed the organization of the first Enterprise India Show in Yangon in November 2011 by CII and UMFCCI and the decision taken to make it an annual event.

Taking into account the needs of communities residing near the border, the two leaders welcomed the decision to set up border haats along the border and the MOU agreed for this purpose. They also noted that the decision to upgrade banking infrastructure
at border trade points would also facilitate greater trade between people living in these areas.

The two leaders directed that a bilateral Border Trade Committee should be set up to implement the earlier decision that meetings would be held regularly between the border trade officials and businesspersons in Tamu-Moreh and Rhi-Zowkhathar.

Power and Energy

The two leaders emphasised the need for closer cooperation to further energy security. In this context, they welcomed the signing of the Production Sharing Contract between the Government of Myanmar and the Jubilant Energy of India. They encouraged investment
by Indian companies in Myanmar oil and gas sector, including in available blocks that are being offered for investment which have good prospects. They also agreed to encourage investment by Indian companies in downstream projects in the petroleum industry.

The Myanmar President expressed his appreciation to India for undertaking the preparation of Detailed Project Reports of the Tamanthi and Shwezaye hydropower projects. Both leaders directed their respective officials to study the contents of the DPRs and
finalise the future course of action, taking into account technical, commercial and socio-environmental considerations.

Culture and People to People Exchanges

The two leaders emphasized the centrality of culture in further deepening the close bonds between the peoples of India and Myanmar and expressed satisfaction with the signature of the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for the period 2012-2015. It was noted
that the CEP would also promote cultural exchanges between the North Eastern States of India and the bordering areas of Myanmar.

They also welcomed the preparations that have been made towards organizing the International Conference on Buddhist Heritage in Myanmar in December 2012 with the cooperation of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Ministry of Religious Affairs of
Myanmar and the Sitagu World Buddhist Association.

The Myanmar side thanked India for its decision to gift a 16 feet sand stone replica of the Sarnath Buddha later in the year that will be installed in the precincts of the Shwedagon Pagoda. A smaller replica will be unveiled by the Prime Minister during
his visit. The Myanmar side also conveyed its appreciation to India for the facilities and courtesies being extended to Myanmar pilgrims visiting India.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing pace of work on the project for conservation and restoration of the Ananda Temple in Bagan, Myanmar by the Archaeological Survey of India which is expected to be completed over the next 2 years.

The two leaders also welcomed the formalization of contacts between Indian and Myanmar think tanks and academic institutions and urged scholars to participate actively and exchange views in academic events being held in either country.

The President of Myanmar welcomed the announcement made by the Prime Minister regarding the Government of India’s support for setting up a school with technical assistance from India.

Regional and Multilateral

The two leaders discussed a broad range of regional and international issues of mutual interest. They agreed to continue their coordination on issues of common interest on the international agenda.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of close coordination towards the cause of regional cooperation. The Prime Minister of India extended his good wishes to Myanmar for a successful term as BIMSTEC Chair, including its proposal to host the next BIMSTEC
Summit meeting. The two leaders looked forward to further intensification of ASEAN-India co-operation under Myanmar's chairmanship of ASEAN in 2014. The Prime Minister of India emphasised that Myanmar holds a significant place both in India's Look East Policy
and in its collaboration with ASEAN countries under the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI). The two leaders agreed to cooperate closely on activities related to the forthcoming ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit.

The Prime Minister of India thanked the President of Myanmar for the warm and gracious hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation during their stay in Myanmar.

The Prime Minister invited the President of Myanmar to visit India on mutually convenient dates which will be decided through diplomatic channels. The President of Myanmar accepted the invitation.

Nay Pyi Taw
May 28, 2012

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MEA1989319871Joint Statement issued by India and Pakistan on the Home Secretary level talks held in Islamabad

Under the resumed bilateral dialogue, the second round of India-Pakistan Home/Interior Secretary Talks was held in Islamabad on May 24-25, 2012. The Pakistan delegation was led by Mr. K. M. Siddiq Akbar, Interior Secretary, and the Indian Delegation was
led by Shri Raj Kumar Singh, Home Secretary of India.

The meeting was held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere.

Both sides exchanged views on the decisions taken in the last round of Home/ Interior Secretary Talks held in New Delhi in March 2011.

Both sides agreed that terrorism poses a continuing threat to peace and security and full normalization of bilateral relations. They reiterated the firm and undiluted commitment of the two countries to fight and eliminate this scourge in all its forms and
manifestations and bring those responsible for such crimes to justice.

The Pakistan side provided an update on the ongoing trial and investigation in Pakistan on the Mumbai Terror Attacks. Both sides discussed Judicial Commission’s visit to India from March 14-21, 2012. Pakistan side noted that it had agreed in principle to
receive a Judicial Commission from India. In this regard, modalities, mandate and composition of the Commission will be worked out through diplomatic channels. Pakistan side reiterated its commitment to bring all the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attacks
to justice expeditiously in accordance with due process of law.

The Home and the Interior Secretaries agreed to enhance cooperation between the NIA of India and the FIA of Pakistan on issues of mutual concern, including Mumbai terror attacks investigation.

India provided information on the on-going Samjhauta Express blast case investigation. It was mentioned by the Indian side that investigation in this case is still ongoing and updated information will be shared with the Pakistan authorities concerned when
the investigation is completed. The Indian side agreed to forward updated information on the investigation through diplomatic channel.

The Pakistan side noted the technical parameters, suggested by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India for establishing a hotline between the Home Secretary of India and the Interior Secretary of Pakistan. Pakistan side would examine
the technical parameters and revert.

Both sides welcomed the signing of the ‘MoU on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotics Drugs/Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemicals and related matters’, during the Eighth Director General level talks between Narcotics
Control Bureau of India and Anti Narcotics Force of Pakistan on Drugs Trafficking in September 2011. They expressed the hope that the MoU will help enhance mutual cooperation between India and Pakistan through effective and sustained steps to control the growing
menace of drug trafficking. In this context, they also welcomed the outcome of the DG level talks, held at Rawalpindi on September 12-13, 2011, and noted the decision to hold DG level talks on Drugs Trafficking annually.

It was decided that CBI and FIA will schedule a meeting at an early date to work out the technical details of moving forward on issues of human trafficking, counterfeit currency, cyber crimes and Red Notices (RNs). Both sides agreed to expeditiously execute
all pending RNs. Pakistan side agreed to examine issues pertaining to Letters Rogatory.

Both sides welcomed the finalization of the Visa Agreement and agreed to sign it at an early date. The Pakistan side informed that some internal approvals were under process and the Agreement will be signed once they are in place.

Both sides welcomed the release of prisoners and fishermen, including those suffering from ailments, since the last round of Home/ Interior Secretary Talks. They noted the need to fully implement the understanding reached during the previous Home/ Interior
Secretary Talks in March 2011 so that the fishermen and the civilian prisoners who have completed their sentence, and whose nationality status has been confirmed by the respective Governments and whose travel documents have been received, are released without
delay. It was also agreed that those fishermen who have completed their sentences will be released by both sides within three months along with their boats, except where the boats have been lost, damaged or confiscated by the courts. It was decided that those
prisoners, whose nationality status could not be confirmed either due to lack of information or due to the physical disabilities of the prisoner concerned, would be transferred to charitable institutions in India and Pakistan pending confirmation of their
nationality status.

Both sides commended the work done by the Judicial Committee on Prisoners and agreed that their work should continue. They also agreed on the need for implementing the 2008 Consular Agreement in letter and spirit.

The Secretaries also exchanged views on the issue of inadvertent crossing of fishermen from both sides. The Pakistan side noted the invitation extended by the Indian Coast Guards for a meeting with the Pakistan Maritime Agency in June 2012 in New Delhi.

In order to strengthen mutual cooperation in criminal matters, the two sides agreed in principle to initiate negotiations on a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). In this regard, it was agreed that Pakistan side would examine the draft of the MLAT handed
over by the Indian side and revert with comments.

The Home Secretary of India thanked the Interior Secretary of Pakistan for the warm hospitality extended to the Indian delegation and the arrangements made for the visit. He invited the Interior Secretary of Pakistan to visit India for the next Home / Interior
Secretary level Talks. The invitation was accepted.

Islamabad
May 25, 2012

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MEA1987119869Joint Statement by India and Maldives on the Visit of the President of Maldives to India

The President of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Waheed, is on an official visit to India from 11 to 15 May 2012 at the invitation of the Prime Minister. He is accompanied by Mrs. Ilham Hussain and a high level delegation.

This is Dr. Mohamed Waheed’s first visit abroad after assuming the office of the President of the Republic of Maldives in February 2012. The President of Maldives is accompanied by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Finance and Treasury and Housing and Environment
and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Maldives and other senior officials.

During his stay in India, the President of Maldives met with the President of India, Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil and held bilateral talks with the Prime Minister on May 12, 2012. The Prime Minister also hosted an official luncheon in the honour of the
President of Maldives.

The External Affairs Minister, the National Security Adviser and Foreign Secretary called on the President of Maldives.

The President of Maldives delivered a lecture at the Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA), New Delhi on the ‘Rule of Law – the key to a successful transition’ on 14 May, 2012.

Official talks between India and Maldives were held on May 12, 2012 in a very warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere reflective of the special relationship between the two countries.

In their discussions the Prime Minister of India and the President of Maldives recalled the close and friendly ties between the two countries. They reiterated an abiding faith in and commitment to democracy, development and peaceful cooperation.

The Prime Minister of India underlined that the peace and stability of Maldives was of great importance to India. He reiterated India’s willingness to assist the Government and people of Maldives in their endeavours to build a stable, peaceful and prosperous
country. He emphasised the importance of all political stakeholders in Maldives working together to take the democratic process forward. The President of Maldives reaffirmed the special and close ties that Maldives has with India. He reiterated appreciation
for India’s assistance and support to the reconciliation process in the wake of recent developments. The President of Maldives informed the Prime Minister of India on the steps taken by his Government to ensure peace and stability in the Maldives. He also
reiterated the commitment of his Government to continue with their efforts to seek national reconciliation and resolve all issues in a peaceful and democratic manner.

Both sides agreed that the two countries share a common destiny and in this context reiterated their commitment to work together for the continued security and prosperity of both the countries.

The two leaders noted that the recent exchanges and visits, including that of the Defence Minister and the Foreign Minister of Maldives in March and April 2012, respectively, have been useful in taking forward the ongoing dialogue. It was agreed that such
exchanges would be encouraged.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to uphold all bilateral agreements and understandings reached during the visit of the Prime Minister of India to Maldives in November 2011. They agreed to take forward and further strengthen the close and multifaceted
bilateral cooperation encompassing a wide range of areas. In this context, it was agreed to expeditiously implement the projects for renovation of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Male and the establishment of the National Police Academy under grants-in
aid from India.

The President of Maldives expressed appreciation for the US$ 40 million Line of Credit for construction of 500 housing units that was extended last year and it was agreed that the work on the same would commence at the earliest.

The President of Maldives conveyed appreciation for the release of an instalment of US$ 20 million from the Standby Credit Facility from India in February 2012 as well as the rollover of the US$ 50 million SBI Treasury Bonds by a year. The President of
Maldives also thanked the Prime Minister of India for agreeing to an additional release of US $ 25 million from the Standby Credit Facility to the Government of Maldives.

Both sides welcomed the successful conduct of the five day India-Maldives-Sri Lanka Joint Coast Guard exercise – DOSTI XI off the coast of Male (Maldives) in April 2012.

The President of Maldives appreciated the fact that the first Military hospital in Maldives has been built with India’s assistance. It was noted that the Defence Minister of Maldives had invited Raksha Mantri to inaugurate the hospital.

The Prime Minister of India appreciated the intention expressed by the President of Maldives to meet with the Indian business community during his visit with a view to attract more Indian investments to Maldives. He expressed the hope that the Government
of Maldives would ensure a climate conducive for the promotion of investments and that the existing projects with Indian investments, including the Male International Airport project, would proceed satisfactorily.

The Prime Minister reiterated India’s continued commitment to assist Maldives in its development efforts by providing economic and technical assistance.

Both the leaders agreed to continue to work towards achieving the goals of integration of economies, including through the implementation of the Special Skills Development Programme in Maldives.

The President of Maldives thanked the Prime Minister of India for the warmth and gracious hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation during their stay in India.

The President of Maldives extended an invitation to the Prime Minister to pay a visit to Maldives.

New Delhi
May 14, 2012

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MEA1986919864Joint Statement by India and Bangladesh on First Meeting of the India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission

The first meeting of the India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission (JCC), as envisaged in the Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development signed during the visit of the Prime Minister of India to Bangladesh, was held in New Delhi on 7 May, 2012.
The Indian delegation was led by Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister. The Bangladesh delegation was led by Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The Ministers reviewed the progress in the bilateral relations between the two countries since the visit of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to India in January 2010 and the visit by the Prime Minister of India to Bangladesh in September 2011. They agreed
that greater bilateral cooperation between their countries will promote inclusive growth and development, and contribute to peace, prosperity and stability in their countries and the region.

POLITICAL AND SECURITY COOPERATION

The Ministers expressed deep satisfaction at the current state of India-Bangladesh relations which were marked by warmth, cordiality and mutual respect. They noted that India and Bangladesh had entered a new phase in their bilateral relations and had achieved
commendable progress in their efforts to further strengthen their friendly ties. There were high expectations for their further growth and development. Both sides welcomed regular high level exchanges, which had helped promote deeper understanding and friendship
and the broadening of the areas of cooperation between the two countries. In this context, they welcomed the visit of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to Tripura on 11-12 January, 2012.

Recalling the visit of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to Tin Bigha on 19 October, 2012, the two sides expressed satisfaction at the facilitation of the 24- hour access for Bangladesh nationals.

The two Ministers welcomed the recent meetings of the Home Ministers, Home Secretaries and Directors General of the BSF and BGB. They welcomed the commencement of implementation of the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) to control cross-border illegal
activities, and crimes as well as for maintenance of peace and harmony along the border. They expressed confidence that it would enhance cooperation between the border guarding forces of the two countries, and enable them to manage the identified vulnerable
areas with a view to preventing criminal activities, illegal movement, acts of violence and loss of lives along the border areas. They also noted that the fencing work in 185 vulnerable patches along the international border was progressing satisfactorily.

The Ministers noted that the signing of the Protocol to the Land Boundary Agreement had paved the way for settlement of all remaining land boundary issues. They agreed on the need for early implementation of the Protocol, including the early signing of
the strip maps pertaining to Adverse Possessions and recently demarcated segments.

The Ministers noted that the legal framework for bilateral security cooperation would be completed with the signing of the Extradition Treaty. They agreed that both sides would expedite efforts to conclude the Treaty at the earliest. They also reiterated
their commitment that the territory of either side would not be allowed for activities inimical to the other and resolved not to allow their respective territory to be used for training, sanctuary and other operations by domestic or foreign terrorist/militant
and insurgent organizations and their operatives. They also rejected extremism, violence and terrorism and agreed to cooperate proactively in combating these evils.

To further strengthen bilateral cooperation, they agreed to intensify consultations by holding annual meetings at the level of the Foreign/External Affairs Ministers (Joint Consultative Commission) and Foreign Secretaries (Foreign Office Consultations).
It was also agreed that biannual consultations at the level of Director General/Joint Secretary would be institutionalized between the two Foreign Ministries.

TRADE AND CONNECTIVITY

The Ministers noted that increase in trade and investment between the two countries was mutually beneficial, and pledged to continue their efforts to promote balanced and broad-based trade, including border trade. Both sides agreed that the decision by
India in 2011 to grant zero duty access to all goods (except 25 items on the Negative List) had opened new opportunities for expansion of Bangladesh exports to India. They welcomed the outcome of the recent meeting of the Commerce Secretaries and the renewal
of the Trade Agreement by three years. They agreed that both sides should similarly extend the validity of the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade.

Both sides called for more vigorous efforts to upgrade border infrastructure, including Land Customs Stations and Integrated Check Posts, and removal of non-tariff barriers on both sides. The Ministers welcomed the inauguration of a second border haat on
the Bangladesh - Meghalaya border and the establishment of four border haats on the Bangladesh - Tripura border. They noted that both sides had succeeded in arriving at an understanding on the Mutual Cooperation Agreement between Bureau of Indian Standards
and the Bangladesh Standards Institute and stressed that it should be concluded at an early date.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction the inauguration in the presence of the Finance Ministers of the two countries of a Car Pass System at Petrapole-Benapole in January 2012, for movement of cargo vehicles to the Land Custom Station of each other's countries.
The Ministers welcomed the agreement to commence a bus service on the Dhaka-Shillong-Guwahati sector. It was agreed to expeditiously conclude the Motor Vehicles Agreement for regulation of passenger and cargo traffic.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to the early finalization of the MoU for construction of the Akhaura-Agartala railway link, to be built with grant-in-aid assistance from India. They directed that infrastructure development works and land acquisition
activities be taken up urgently.

The two sides agreed that necessary formalities for use of Chittagong and Mongla seaports for movement of goods to and from India through water, rail and road would be completed urgently.

DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION

The Ministers reviewed the status of implementation of projects under the $1 billion Indian Line of Credit. They noted that projects amounting to US $ 810.46.million had been agreed upon and were under implementation. They directed the concerned Ministries
to expedite procedures and finalise the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for new projects so that the benefits could reach the people. Bangladesh welcome the announcement made by India during the visit of Finance Minister to Bangladesh on May
5-6, 2012, to convert an amount of USD 200 million from credit to grants-in-aid for projects of priority to Bangladesh.

The two sides agreed to expedite the implementation of development projects including construction of a Cultural Centre, undertaking feasibility study for upgradation of Dhaka - Chittagong railway line, setting up of IT labs in 64 model schools and IT centres
at Military Institute for Science & Technology, Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre and Bangladesh Police Academy and provision of solar lamps to 2800 families affected by the Sidr Cyclone.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction that preparatory activities for the construction of a bridge across Feni River were underway and directed its implementation as early as possible.

The Ministers agreed to develop the inland container terminal at Ashuganj with Indian assistance and to commence transhipments at Ashuganj port.

BILATERAL COOPERATION IN WATER RESOURCES AND POWER

Both sides welcomed the recent exchange of data on the flow of the Teesta River at the technical level. They reiterated their commitment to the early finalization of agreements for water-sharing of Teesta and Feni rivers. The Indian side reiterated its
commitment that it would not take any unilateral decision on the Himalayan component of the proposed River Interlinking Project which may affect Bangladesh. Both sides agreed to constitute a sub-group under the Joint River Commission (JRC) that would go into
all aspects of the Tipaimukh Hydroelectric Project.

The Ministers welcomed the Power Purchase Agreement signed between BPDB and NVVN for purchase of 250MW power from India by Bangladesh as well as the decision of the Government of Bangladesh to shortly invite tenders for the purchase of an additional 250MW
power from India. Both sides agreed to complete the pending administrative formalities for commissioning the inter-grid connectivity by July 2013. They also welcomed the establishment of a Joint Venture between NTPC and BPDB to set up a 1320MW thermal power
plant in Bagerhat and directed them to complete its installation expeditiously. They also directed the Joint Venture to speed up the conclusion of a feasibility report for a similar power plant in Chittagong. Both sides welcomed the constitution of a Technical
Team to conduct feasibility study for transmission of power from India to the Eastern part of Bangladesh and options for interconnection for evacuation of power.

India welcomed the participation of Bangladesh in power projects in India, particularly in the North-Eastern states of India.

Both sides called for an early implementation of the MoU for Cooperation in Renewable Energy and the MoU on the Conservation of the Sunderbans along with the signing of a Protocol on Conservation of Royal Bengal Tigers of the Sunderban.

SUB-REGIONAL COOPERATION

The two Ministers welcomed the formation of technical-level teams for sub-regional cooperation in Water & Power and Connectivity & Transit by both the countries and looked forward to the convening of the meetings at an early date.

PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

Both sides expressed great satisfaction at the successful hosting of the year-long festivities of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore in each other's countries. Both sides looked forward to jointly marking the 90th anniversary of the publication
of Bidrohi by Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

The two Ministers agreed to expand steps to increase people to people exchanges between the two countries and directed that the Revised Travel Arrangements be finalized at an early date.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction that the Joint Empowered Group on Maitree Express would meet on 9 May, 2012 to improve passenger comfort and reduce travel time.

Both sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the Joint Consultative Commission in Dhaka at a mutually convenient date to be decided through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
May 7, 2012

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MEA1986419860Joint Statement by India and Afghanistan on the Visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan to India

At the invitation of Shri S.M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister, H.E. Dr. Zalmai Rassoul, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is currently on a visit to India. The Ministers co-chaired the inaugural session of the India-Afghanistan
Partnership Council which has been mandated to implement the Strategic Partnership Agreement signed by the Prime Minister and the President of Afghanistan in October 2011. The meeting of the Partnership Council was preceded by a meeting of the Joint Working
Group on Political and Security Consultations headed by Foreign Secretary and the Deputy Foreign Minister of Afghanistan. During his visit the Afghan Foreign Minister called on Prime Minister and held meetings with Finance Minister and National Security Adviser
on a range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister conveyed his best wishes to President Hamid Karzai and other leaders of Afghanistan. He welcomed the holding of the first session of the India- Afghanistan Partnership Council and expressed the hope that the strategic partnership between
India and Afghanistan would be further strengthened in the critical period ahead. He reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to assisting the Government and people of Afghanistan in their endeavour to build a peaceful, stable, democratic and prosperous country.
The Afghan Foreign Minister expressed Afghanistan’s deep appreciation for India’s friendship, generous assistance and the crucial role it is playing in the process of stabilisation, reconstruction and economic development of Afghanistan.

During the first meeting of the India-Afghanistan Partnership Council, the two Ministers welcomed the holding of the first meeting of the Joint Working Group on Political and Security Consultations and decided that the three Joint Working Groups on Trade
and Economic Cooperation, Capacity Development and Education, and Social, Cultural, Civil Society and people to people contacts will meet at an early date to recommend further steps to deepen and enhance cooperation in their respective fields. The Foreign
Minister of Afghanistan welcomed India’s initiative to host a Regional Investors’ Meeting in New Delhi to facilitate investments in Afghanistan.

The Ministers reaffirmed the determination of both the Governments to enhance and explore all avenues under the aegis of the India-Afghanistan Partnership Council to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

H.E. Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission of India and H.E. Mr. Yukio Edano, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan held the 5th meeting of the India-Japan Energy Dialogue on April 30, 2012 in New Delhi. Senior
officials of the relevant ministries and departments of both countries participated in the discussions. The two sides welcomed the progress achieved so far in the four previous rounds of the Energy Dialogue and in the deliberations of the various Working Groups.
They appreciated the sector-specific discussions by experts of both India and Japan and the progress made in various areas of cooperation.

The two sides reached a common recognition that it is important for the two countries to cooperate with each other in the energy efficiency and conservation sector, and welcomed that the meeting of "Energy Efficiency and Conservation Working Group” under
the India-Japan Energy Dialogue was held in India in January 2012.

The two sides decided at this meeting to intensify cooperation in energy efficiency and conservation sector as well as environmental issues. They welcomed the ongoing cooperation for energy conservation by the Energy Conservation Center, Japan (ECCJ) with
the Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) and Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). They appreciated the development and dissemination of energy conservation audit manual for high energy-consuming industries such as the textile industry and the iron
and steel industry through dispatch of experts and training of accepted trainees. Furthermore, they confirmed the need to expand the process of consultation between the public and private sectors to strengthen the bilateral cooperation in the energy sector,
mainly in energy efficiency and conservation as well as environmental issues. They also confirmed the need to continue the study that was conducted in 2011 concerning the list of Japan’s energy-saving and environmental technologies to be supported for enhanced
use of energy-saving technologies in the Indian iron and steel industry.

The two sides decided to consider the possibility of further cooperation in the establishment of statistics database in the sector concerned, including high energy-consuming industries where energy consumption have been growing in India in recent years.
Additionally, taking into consideration that the energy demand in the transport sector is increasing in proportion to the economic growth in India, they decided that they will discuss the possibility of cooperation in the said sector. They also decided to
cooperate for promotion of energy conservation in local and small-to-medium businesses. They also reconfirmed the importance of the Regional Energy Efficiency Center (REEC) projects in promoting working-level energy conservation in India. They decided to explore
the possibility of establishment of a 2nd REEC in India.

The two ministers welcomed that the coke dry quenching equipment (CDQ) demonstration project and diesel generator fuel-switching demonstration project equipment by New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) were completed in 2011.

The two sides shared the recognition that it is important and useful to closely cooperate in the development of infrastructure in the sector of electricity and energy such as deployment of highly efficient coal-fired power generation, pumped-storage power
generation and power transmission systems, in order to cope with a rapid increase of electricity demand in India and promote sustainable economic growth with consideration given to environmental issues. They welcomed the progress of the project for advising
the renovation of equipment and facilities of thermal power plants, which includes surveys that have been done at four sites to date with the aim of efficiency improvement of coal-fired power plants and environmental improvement in India. They also welcomed
the training activities for transfer of Clean Coal Technology (CCT) which have continued since the year 2001, and that a total of 136 Indian trainees had been trained in Japan by 2011.

The two sides welcomed that the model project by NEDO to reduce ash content in Indian coal by using efficient coal preparation technology is advancing well on a commercial scale. They expressed the hope that the model project will be completed by 2012 and
this technology will come into wider use based on the outcome of the project.

The two sides confirmed that it is important for the two countries to cooperate with each other in the renewable energy sector, and welcomed that the meeting of "Renewable Energy Working Group” under the India-Japan Energy Dialogue was held in India in
January 2012.

The two sides welcomed the progress of the "Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor Smart Community Initiative” to develop next-generation energy infrastructure in an integrated manner by making use of Japan’s environmental and IT technologies such as photovoltaic
power generation, smart grid, smart urban traffic system, water control, recycling and treatment and others which are also important from an energy point of view. The two sides will explore possibilities of making these technologies come into wide use in India.
They also welcomed the "National Solar Mission” that is mainly aimed at establishing photovoltaic power generation facilities with a total capacity of 22 GW by 2022, and decided they will discuss the possibility of contribution by Japan’s technologies and
products.

Considering the big share of India and Japan in the world’s demand of LNG, the two sides confirmed that the two countries could play an important role in expanding the market in the future, while ensuring the stability and transparency of the market. They
confirmed they will work on methane hydrates.

The two sides reiterated the importance of civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries. They affirmed the need to cooperate to enhance nuclear safety based on the experience and the lessons learned from the accident at TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi
Nuclear Power Station.

The two sides confirmed the need to promote industrial cooperation between the two countries to expand bilateral energy cooperation on a commercial basis. From this point of view, they welcomed that the 4th India-Japan Energy Forum was held in India in
January 2012.

The two sides recognized that the reinforcement of energy security in the East Asian region is the highest priority issue in this region. Based on this recognition, they decided that it is important to promote measures for reinforcement of energy cooperation
in East Asia with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) as the central organisation as decided at the East Asia Summit (EAS) Energy Ministers’ Meeting held in September 2011. They confirmed that the two countries will exercise leadership
in the East Asian region and positively support ERIA to encourage the introduction of clean coal technology (CCT) in India and have ERIA start research activities to create East Asian electricity networks.

The two sides stressed that the bilateral cooperation in the framework of India-Japan Energy Dialogue should not be limited to the above-mentioned activities, and such cooperation should be further deepened. They decided to hold the sixth India-Japan Energy
Dialogue in Japan in the latter part of 2012.

New Delhi
April 30, 2012

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MEA1954519258Joint Communiqué of the Eleventh Meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Russian Federation, the Republic of India and the People's Republic of China

The Foreign Ministers of the Russian Federation, the Republic of India and the People's Republic of China held their 11th meeting in Moscow on 13 April 2012.

The Ministers reiterated the importance attached by Russia, India and China to their constructive cooperation in the trilateral format. They stressed that this cooperation was not directed against any other country, was conducive to the promotion of regional
peace, security and stability and served to benefit their peoples.

The Ministers reviewed the progress in the implementation of the decisions taken at their 10th Meeting in Wuhan, China on 14-15 November 2010.

The Ministers underlined the importance of cooperation in the field of disaster management and appreciated the outcome of the trilateral programme for exchange of information and expertise on the use of geo-spatial technologies in monitoring and forecasting
flood and drought organized in Hyderabad, India on 24-26 May 2011. They also welcomed the outcome of the 4th Russia-India-China Trilateral Expert Meeting on Disaster Management in St.Petersburg, Russia on 6-9 September 2011 and identified priorities for further
cooperation in the trilateral format.

The Ministers welcomed the growth in trade and investment relations among the three countries and took note of the 3rd Trilateral Business Forum in Rostov-on-Don, Russia on 21-22 September 2011.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction that the 11th Trilateral Academic Scholars Dialogue was convened in Beijing on 15-16 November 2011.

The Ministers supported advancing practical cooperation in the trilateral format in the areas of emergency response, health care, agriculture, business, energy and innovation & high technology, acting in close coordination with efforts made in these areas by
different multilateral fora.

The Ministers recognized that the world was undergoing profound changes, and the global trend towards multipolarity was irreversible. Meanwhile, global challenges were becoming ever more serious and complex. In this context, they emphasized the need to
find collective solutions to global challenges such as regional conflicts, WMD proliferation, terrorism, transnational organized crime, illicit drug trafficking, natural and man-made disasters, financial and economic destabilization, food shortages and climate
change. They noted that the events in the Middle East and North Africa had shown that there was no alternative to negotiations and peaceful settlement of conflicts through concerted actions by the international community. The Ministers affirmed that Russia,
India and China intended to closely cooperate in addressing these challenges, including by consulting among themselves in the framework of the UN and relevant multilateral fora.

The Ministers stressed the importance for the Asia-Pacific region to establish an open and transparent security and cooperation architecture responsive to the legitimate interests of every country in the region and built on universally recognized norms
and principles of international law, recognition of the indivisibility of security and mutual respect and confidence. 6. The Ministers noted that the East Asia Summits provided a promising format for dialogue on broad strategic, political and economic issues
of common interest and concern with the aim of promoting peace, stability, and economic prosperity in East Asia. Russia, India and China called for advancing partnership in the spirit of network diplomacy among various regional associations, fora and dialogue
structures, such as ASEM, ASEAN, the SCO, ARF, SAARC, CICA, the ADMM-Plus and others.

The Ministers expressed deep concern over the continuing situation in Afghanistan and stressed the importance of the international community remaining engaged in Afghanistan. They called on the international community to deal firmly with terrorist groups
to obviate the risk of Afghanistan sliding back to being a safe haven for terrorists and extremists, threatening the region and beyond. The Ministers reaffirmed that Russia, India and China remained committed to a peaceful, stable, independent and prosperous
Afghanistan.

The Ministers stressed the central coordinating role of the UN in promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan. They reaffirmed readiness to closely interact on Afghanistan in the framework of the UN and within other international fora and regional initiatives,
including the Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan, the Istanbul process and the SCO. In this regard they welcomed Afghanistan's aspiration to play a larger role in these regional organizations.

The Ministers stated that the withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) should be guided by the security situation on the ground and the capability of Afghan National Security Forces to take care of the security of their country. The Ministers
noted that ISAF should fulfill its task in accordance with the mandates of UNSC resolutions.

The Ministers proceed from the assumption that national reconciliation in Afghanistan should take place truly under the Afghan leadership and ownership, as laid forth in the 20 July 2010 Kabul Conference Communiqué and further elaborated in the 5 December
2011 Bonn Conference Conclusions supported by the Government of Afghanistan and the international community.

The Ministers emphasized the urgent need for the international community to counteract illicit drugs production in and trafficking from Afghanistan, in line with the decisions of the Paris Pact and the SCO Anti-Drug Strategy.

The Ministers firmly supported the central coordinating role of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security, promoting common development and international cooperation. They reaffirmed the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN,
including its Security Council, with a view to making it more effective, efficient and representative. Russia and China reiterated the importance they attach to the status of India in international affairs and support its aspiration to play a greater role
in the UN.

The Ministers reaffirmed that, being responsible States that possess advanced nuclear technologies, Russia, China and India considered it as their common task to prevent proliferation of nuclear weapons and contribute actively to strengthening the nuclear
non-proliferation regime. They welcomed the successful holding of the Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul in March 2012 and supported the implementation of decisions contained in its Communiqué.

The Ministers noted that the situation concerning Iranian nuclear issue could not be allowed to escalate into conflict, the disastrous consequences of which would be in no one’s interest. Iran has a crucial role to play for the peaceful development and
prosperity of a region of high political and economic relevance, and needs to play its legitimate part as a responsible member of the global community. The Ministers expressed concern about the situation that was emerging around Iran’s nuclear issue. They
recognized Iran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy consistent with its international obligations, and support resolution of the issues involved through political and diplomatic means and dialogue, including between the IAEA and Iran, and urged Iran
to comply with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and extend its full cooperation to the IAEA. The Ministers expressed the hope that the P5+1 meeting on 14 April 2012 would yield positive results.

The Ministers expressed deep concern over DPRK’s launch and called for maximum restraint from any move which could lead to escalation of tension on the Korean Peninsula.

The Ministers affirmed the importance of the proper resolution of the nuclear issue of the Korean Peninsula through political and diplomatic means and called on all parties concerned for further work aimed at the earliest resumption of the Six-Party Talks,
with a view to achieving the goals set in the Joint Statement of the People's Republic of China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Russia, the Republic of Korea, the US and Japan of 19 September 2005.

The Ministers reiterated strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stressed that there can be no justification for any acts of terrorism on any grounds. Acknowledging that terrorism is a common challenge that requires the
strongest collective action by the global community to combat it, they reaffirmed the action must be taken not only against the perpetrators of terrorist attacks but also against their supporters and sponsors.

The Ministers underlined the necessity of assisting other UN member states in better implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and increasing the number of parties to the UN anti-terrorism conventions, and promoting the implementation of
Security Council resolutions, in particular Resolutions 1373 (2001) and 1624 (2005). They emphasized the support to the Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee activity and reinforcement of the capacities of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate
in key areas related to countering the threat of terrorism.

The Ministers expressed concern over the increasing use of information and communication technologies in ways threatening the security of nations as also international peace and security. In this context, the Ministers noted the need for the international
community to formulate relevant norms and rules.

In the context of developments in the Middle East and North Africa, the Ministers reaffirmed commitment to finding solutions to crises confronting the region's countries within a legal framework and only through peaceful means, without outside interference
inconsistent with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

The Ministers emphasized strong commitment of their States to the principles of sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria and resolutely called for peaceful settlement of the crisis in that country through joint renunciation of
violence by all sides and Syrian-led inclusive political process.

The Ministers expressed support for the efforts of Mr. Kofi Annan as the Joint Special Envoy of the UN – Arab League, including his proposal for early deployment of the UN observer mission.

The Ministers reaffirmed strong commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict on the basis of the universally recognized international legal framework, including the relevant UN Security Council resolutions,
the Madrid principles, and the Arab Peace Initiative.

The Ministers noted that the process of recovery from the global financial and economic crisis had been uneven. Emerging markets and developing countries were becoming the driving forces for the growth of global economy. The Ministers agreed that major
economies should in a precise and timely manner coordinate efforts to facilitate the strong, sustainable and balanced global growth. They expressed particular concern over persisting development gap between the North and the South, and stressed that steps
to reduce this gap could enhance global growth.

The Ministers of India and China welcomed the accession of the Russian Federation to the WTO, which would make the organization more representative and strengthen the rule-based multilateral trading system.

The Ministers noted the need for all countries to take specific steps to counter any form of protectionism and to strive to achieve a comprehensive and successful outcome of the WTO Doha Round in line with its developmental mandate.

The Ministers reiterated the role of the Group of 20 as the major forum for international economic cooperation. They emphasized that the goal of reform of international financial institutions was to achieve, inter-alia, equitable distribution of voting
power between developed and developing countries. India and China expressed their strong support for Russia's Chairmanship of the Group of 20 in 2013.

The Ministers welcomed the outcomes of the 17th Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC (COP-17/CMP7) held in Durban, South Africa in December 2011. The Ministers expressed confidence that the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) to be held in
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in June 2012 would provide an important opportunity for the international community to promote global cooperation in sustainable development.

The Ministers welcomed the outcome of the Fourth BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, India, on 29 March 2012, which demonstrated the growing stature and weight of this group.

The Ministers commended the consultations among the directors of the respective departments of Russian, Indian and Chinese Foreign Ministries that took place on 12 July 2011, and agreed to hold such exchanges on a regular basis.

The Foreign Ministers of Russia and China appreciated the constructive engagement of India with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and its willingness to play a greater role in the SCO.

The Ministers of India and China thanked the Minister of Russia for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements for the 11th meeting of the Foreign Ministers.

The Ministers decided to hold the next Ministerial meeting in India.

Moscow
April 13, 2012

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MEA1925819244Documents signed during the State Visit of the Emir of Qatar
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MEA1924419205Joint Statement by India and Brazil on the State Visit of Her Excellency Ms. Dilma Rousseff, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil to India

Her Excellency Ms. Dilma Rousseff, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil paid a State Visit to India from March 27-31, 2012 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh. The President of Brazil and the Prime
Minister of India held official talks on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

During the visit, the President of Brazil met the President of India, Her Excellency Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil. After a ceremonial welcome in New Delhi, the President of Brazil visited Rajghat to pay homage to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi. The President
of India hosted a Banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. The Chairperson UPA Smt. Sonia Gandhi and the Leader of Opposition Smt. Sushma Swaraj called on the President of Brazil. The University of Delhi conferred the Degree of Doctor of Letters Honoris
Causa on the President of Brazil during the visit.

The following bilateral instruments for cooperation were signed during the visit:

Executive Programme of Cultural Exchange 2012-2014;

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation under the Brazilian programme ‘Science without Borders’ ;

Programme of Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation (2012-2014);

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Biotechnology; v Memorandum of Understanding on Technical Cooperation;

MOU between INMETRO and NABCB on mutual recognition of accreditation bodies; and

Statement of Intent for Promotion of Gender Equality and Advancement of the Rights of Women and Children.

Strategic Partnership

The two Heads of Government acknowledged the significance of the bilateral visit of the President of Brazil and underlined that the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership established in 2006 has moved to a higher level of a privileged nature. They recognised
that the bilateral relations between India and Brazil are based on bonds of strong friendship which are underpinned by shared values of democracy, rule of law and commonality of interests. The meeting between the two Leaders was held in an atmosphere of warmth
and friendship. They noted with satisfaction that the range and frequency of engagement between the two countries had expanded and intensified in recent years and reiterated their commitment to enhance bilateral cooperation to a higher level. They also reaffirmed
that they would work together for the further enhancement of their multifaceted relationship.

Both Leaders expressed satisfaction with the mutually beneficial cooperation and partnership between India and Brazil at all levels encompassing political, economic, trade, investment, defence, energy, agriculture, science and technology, space, education
and culture. They recalled that South-South cooperation fosters a shared vision of the evolving international order which enables close cooperation and coordination in all multilateral fora. They underscored that the ongoing cooperation through G-4, G-20,
IBSA, BRICS and BASIC is another important dimension of their relationship.

The two Leaders complimented the Foreign Ministers of the two countries for the excellent groundwork they had made on all areas of India-Brazil Strategic Partnership during the 5th round of the India-Brazil Joint Ministerial Commission meeting in New Delhi
in December 2011. They evaluated the outcome of the decision of the Joint Commission Ministerial meeting and called for the 6th Meeting to be held in Brazil in 2012. The co-Chairs of the Joint Ministerial Meeting have been requested to carry out a review of
the implementation of the decisions arrived at during the State visit.

Economic and Financial Dialogue

Both Leaders welcomed the establishment of the bilateral Economic and Financial Dialogue in 2011. Considering the fast changing nature of global financial markets, it was useful for the two countries as major economies and members of the G-20 to exchange
views on macro and micro economic and financial issues. The two Leaders expressed deep concern over the international economic and financial crisis and underlined the importance of maintaining close contact in the G-20 meetings.

Trade and Investment

The two Leaders expressed satisfaction at the steady increase of bilateral trade and investment between India and Brazil. They noted that the bilateral trade has already touched a record US$ 9.3 billion in 2011 and agreed to set a trade target of US$ 15
billion by 2015. The two countries would work towards identifying and implementing steps required to remove various impediments to trade to achieve this objective. They recognised that there exists considerable untapped potential for greater trade exchanges
considering the size of the two economies and also the total volume of foreign trade in both countries. In this context, they also took note of the recommendations of the meetings of the fifth Joint Ministerial Commission, the Trade Monitoring Mechanism (TMM)
and the Brazil-India Business Conference: "A New Frontier for Business Opportunities”. Addressing Indian and Brazilian businessmen at the Conference, President of Brazil made a presentation on the bilateral economic relations and future perspectives for strengthening
the economic ties between the two countries.

The two Heads of Government underscored the importance of the CEOs Forum in the promotion of bilateral trade and investments and called for the early convening of the India-Brazil CEOs Forum. Both sides noted that diversification of trade basket and participation
in each other’s trade fairs and sharing of information on each other’s investment policies in specific sectors through seminars and conclaves would help to further strengthening trade and investment linkages. Both Leaders urged the concerned officials to discuss
and find solutions on tariff and non-tariff barriers, anti-dumping cases and countervailing duties and resolve them through mutual consultations. The Indian side invited Brazil to join the 20th International Engineering and Technology Fair (IETF) to be held
in New Delhi in 2013 as a focus country.

The President of Brazil and the Prime Minister of India discussed opportunities for further expansion of bilateral trade and expressed their satisfaction with the implementation of the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement. They also reaffirmed their
commitment to analyse possible alternatives to expand the Agreement and the preferences granted to each other.

Agriculture

Recognising the enormous potential in agriculture and food processing sectors, the two Leaders expressed interest in enhancing cooperation for mutually beneficial partnerships. They urged their competent authorities and technical teams to take necessary
measures to widen our cooperation in these sectors in the context of food security of both countries in the near future. They underscored their mutual desire to deepen cooperation in agriculture research between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(ICAR) and the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA). They welcomed the areas identified for cooperation in the fields of germ-plasm exchange, agro energy, sugar based ethanol, soybean cultivation and processing for bio diesel and animal reproduction,
beginning with programmes in 2012. They expressed appreciation over the streamlining of certification for import of bovine embryos from India to Brazil. The successful exchange of bovine genetic material is an example of how both countries can help each other
to improve the quality of their cooperation in the areas of animal husbandry. They reiterated interest to cooperate in setting up cold chains and terminal markets for fruits, vegetables and other perishables with state of art facilities in India. In this regard
they recognised the importance of convening the Joint Working Group on Agriculture to discuss specific proposals and take forward bilateral cooperation in Agriculture.

Tourism, Air Services and Sports

Both Leaders recognised the vast tourism potential in each other’s countries and reiterated their interest to collaborate in the Tourism sector for mutually beneficial partnership. They agreed to facilitate expeditious movement of tourists to each other’s
countries. In view of the forthcoming Football World Cup 2014 and Olympic Games 2016 to be held in Rio de Janeiro, both Leaders expressed interest to explore the possibility of joint venture investments in the hospitality and tourism sectors. They urged the
two sides to operationalise the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between India and Brazil signed in March 2011 so as to facilitate and encourage business interaction, tourism and people-to people exchanges. Furthermore, they highlighted their interest in promotion
of cooperation in the areas of sports and youth exchanges.

Defence

The President of Brazil and the Prime Minister of India expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation in defence. They recalled the successful visit of the Defence Minister of Brazil, H.E. Mr. Celso Amorim, to India in February 2012. They also noted
with satisfaction the reciprocal visits of high level officials and exchanges of defence personnel. They reiterated their desire to jointly collaborate in training as well as exchange of information on peace keeping operations and other areas of mutual interest.
They agreed to work on specific proposals for joint development of projects in defence sector, in particular relating to ship building and design. They also agreed to explore possible cooperations in the areas such as space, nuclear propulsion, cyber-defence
and defence systems, among others. They expressed satisfaction with the successful maiden flight with the Indian Airborne Early Warning and Control System mounted on the Brazilian EMBRAER aircraft as an excellent example of their ongoing collaborative partnership
in Research and Development. The two Leaders recognised that the existing Joint Defence Committee is a useful mechanism to discuss these issues and work towards expanding bilateral defence cooperation.

They noted the progress made in the realisation of the objectives enshrined in the Brazil-India Agreement on Defence Cooperation, signed in 2003, and reaffirmed the interest of both sides to further build cooperation in the defence sector. Both Leaders
agreed that there is scope for promoting military technical cooperation through joint scientific research and technological development activities in armament and military equipment; exchange of experience, technologies and information related to development,
production and testing of armament and military equipment, and other such initiatives.

Science and Technology

The two Leaders expressed their satisfaction with the first meeting of the Brazil-India Joint Commission on Scientific and Technological Cooperation on March 22 - 23, 2012. The Joint Commission is a relevant mechanism for the exchange of experience and
programmes and for the establishment of new scientific and corporate partnerships, in the fields of second generation bio-fuels and renewable energy; nanotechnology; biotechnology; information and communications technology; innovation; cooperation in the aerospace
sector; and oceanography. They welcomed the establishment of a Bilateral Programme of Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation for 2012-2014, with implementation mechanisms, as well as the signature of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation
in Biotechnology, which will focus on initiatives in the areas of health (especially cancer and stem cell therapy); agriculture; bio-fuels and bio-energy; nanotechnology; taxonomy; and vaccines, among others.

Both Leaders emphasised the potential for bilateral cooperation in the field of Information and Communications Technology, based on the complementarities and technological development of both countries. They noted with satisfaction their converging dialogue
on the Information Society, especially regarding the trilateral cooperation in the IBSA Forum. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the principles established by the Tunis Agenda during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), highlighting the
importance of the democratisation of the forums discussing this issue and of the effective participation of the developing countries in the Internet global governance regime, as a means to resolve the effects of the "digital hiatus”.

Space

Both Leaders expressed desire to strengthen cooperation in Space research in areas such as remote sensing, data sharing and weather forecasting. In this regard they expressed their interest to exchange experts on regular basis. Brazil reiterated its interest
in receiving images from the Indian satellite Resourcesat-2, given the successful cooperation in reception of data from Resourcesat-1 in the Terrestrial Station of Cuiaba. On IBSA Satellite Project, both Leaders expressed strong interest in working jointly
for the success of the Technical Meeting to be held in Bengaluru before the end of the year of 2012.

Environment

Both Leaders expressed interest in fostering cooperation in the field of traditional knowledge, protected areas and water resource management. They expressed satisfaction in enhancing cooperation in Environment in areas including scientific management of
forests, climate change, waste management and reuse of treated effluents.

Energy

The two Leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress of bilateral cooperation in the field of energy for mutually beneficial partnership. They recognised the potential opportunities in this sector and welcomed private and public companies to participate
in exploration and production of oil and gas in Brazil. They asked concerned authorities for early convening of Joint Working Group meeting on Hydrocarbons to discuss further cooperation in this sector as well as sharing of experiences in bio-fuels, hydro-power
generation, wind and solar energy and privatization and distribution of electricity. Acknowledging the importance of the new and renewable energy resources as instruments for the strengthening of the national energy security, the promotion of sustainable development,
technological growth and poverty elimination in association with social inclusion, the parties concurred to create a permanent mechanism for the exchange of technical information and to address those issues. They further reiterated their interest to cooperate
in the area of civil nuclear energy.

Health

Both sides recognised the importance of active floor co-ordination on the issue of substandard/spurious/falsely-labelled/falsified/counterfeit medical products in the World Health Organization (WHO) and IPR related issues on generic medicines. Both sides
also agreed to cooperate and exchange views on other priority health areas such as social determinants of health, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS, primary health care, non- communicable diseases traditional medicine, as well as neglected diseases
with a focus on Hansen disease.

Education

The President of Brazil informed the Prime Minister of India about her initiative of "Science without Borders”. The Prime Minister expressed keen interest in the idea with emphasis on basic sciences and technology. Recognising some of India’s capabilities
in specific areas, they agreed to start a programme of placement of students and scholars in each other’s institutes of excellence. They also took note of the progress made in the Joint Working Group on Education and directed that a beginning could be made
by the two countries with regard to these exchanges at different levels in 2012. Both Leaders expressed their satisfaction with the signature of the "MOU on Cooperation under the Brazilian programme ‘Science without Borders’ on reception of Brazilian scholarship
students in India. Brazil welcomed the establishment of an Indian Chair at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) in Rio de Janeiro.

Culture

The President of Brazil and the Prime Minister of India reaffirmed the fundamental role of culture to deepen the friendly ties between the peoples of Brazil and India and decided to stimulate closer relations between artists, cultural institutions and producers
of the two countries. They expressed their satisfaction with the signature of the Executive Programme of Cultural Exchanges for the Period 2012-2014, and underlined that it will give momentum to the existing cultural ties. They welcomed more frequent cultural
exchanges including the highly successful Indian Cultural Festival in four cities in Brazil in 2011, the Film Festivals held in different cities in Brazil and the setting up of the Indian Cultural Centre in Sao Paulo in 2011, as well as the announcement of
the residency programme for Brazilian visual artists, which will take place in New Delhi and Mumbai in 2012. Brazil expressed its intention to set up a Brazilian Cultural Centre in India. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in the audio-visual sector and
explore mutually beneficial opportunities in this sector for Film production.

Regional and Multilateral

The two Heads of Government discussed a broad range of regional and international issues of mutual interest. They exchanged views on the developments in South Asia and Latin American region. They reaffirmed their commitment to the Millennium Development
Goals to fight against hunger and poverty. They also agreed to continue their coordination on issues of common interest of the international agenda.

The President of Brazil and the Prime Minister of India noted with satisfaction the fruitful cooperation established during the nine years of the IBSA Forum. The continuity of various IBSA Forum activities remains a priority of their foreign policies. The
last IBSA Summit, in October 2011, was held in a unique moment for the Forum, when the three countries were simultaneously members of the United Nations Security Council. They underscored that the cooperation of the IBSA countries in the UNSC in 2011 enriched
the debates on the agenda of the Council and contributed to enhance its effectiveness and legitimacy.

The President of Brazil congratulated Prime Minister of India for the successful organisation of the Fourth BRICS Summit and the other events in the run up to the meetings of the Leaders. Brazil and India expressed their satisfaction with the growing dynamism
of the BRICS and the important consensus reached in different subjects during the Fourth Summit. They also noticed with great satisfaction that the scope of intra-BRICS cooperation is continuously broadening out and that the five countries concur on important
issues on the international agenda.

The two Heads of Government stressed the importance of coordinating their actions at the G-20 and other international economic fora. As the world economy presents modest and unequal growth and exposed to risks, Brazil and India's efforts to combine financial
and monetary policies with inclusive growth and employment generation become increasingly relevant. The Leaders also noted the importance of promptly implementing the agreed reforms in the governance structure of the international financial institutions. Such
reforms must take into consideration the growing influence of the emerging countries economies.

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, through its expansion in the permanent and non-permanent categories, with increased representation of developing countries in both, in order
to improve its representativeness, and legitimacy, and for it to better meet the contemporary challenges faced by the international community. The Leaders reiterated mutual support for their countries’ aspiration to permanent membership in an expanded UNSC.

The Leaders called for enhanced Security Council procedures in order to monitor and assess the manner in which resolutions are interpreted and implemented. In this vein, they support the idea that the concept of Responsibility while Protecting (RwP) should
be discussed further at the UN.

Regarding Middle East and North Africa, the two Heads of Government expressed their support the movement for greater democracy, inclusive growth, human dignity and social justice in the region.

They expressed their deep concern at the deteriorating situation in Syria and called for an immediate end to violence, which they strongly condemned. They stressed that a peaceful, Syrian-led political process is essential to resolve the ongoing crisis.
They also welcomed the designation of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan as UN-LAS Joint Special Envoy on the Syria Crisis and support his efforts to bring about a peaceful resolution.

The two Leaders underlined the urgent need for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Brazil and India reiterated their support for a sovereign, independent, democratic and economically viable Palestinian State, with East Jerusalem
as its capital, within the 1967 borders, living side by side with Israel in peace and security. Given that the Palestinian question is possibly the single most complex challenge on the international peace and security agenda, they called for greater involvement
of the Council in the search of a solution to the conflict.

The President of Brazil and the Prime Minister of India considered that sustainable development is the main paradigm for inclusive economic growth, social equality and environmental conservation, in primacy of the Rio principles in this regard. They underscored
that a green economy should contribute to meeting the goals of poverty eradication, food security and sustained, inclusive and equitable growth that generates employment. The Leaders highlighted their countries’ coordination in the BASIC group on the climate
change negotiations, which played an important role in the positive results of the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Durban in 2011.

The two Leaders reaffirmed their mutual support to the important events of the environmental agenda that will take place in India and in Brazil in 2012: the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP-11) to the Convention on Biological Diversity, in October 2012
in Hyderabad, India and the United Nations Conference on Sustainability Development (the Rio+20) In this context, they underlined that the Rio+20 Conference represents an unique opportunity for the international community to secure renewed political commitment
to sustainable development. President Dilma Rousseff extended an invitation to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to participate in the Rio +20 Conference to be held in Rio de Janeiro on June 20-22, 2012.

The President of Federative Republic of Brazil thanked the Indian government and its people for the warm hospitality extended to her and the accompanying delegation in India. She invited the President of India and Prime Minister of India to visit Brazil
on mutually convenient dates which will be decided through diplomatic channel.

New Delhi
March 30, 2012

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MEA1920519231Documents signed during the State visit of President of Brazil
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MEA1923119158Fourth BRICS Summit - Delhi Declaration

We, the leaders of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, met in New Delhi, India, on 29 March 2012 at the Fourth BRICS Summit. Our discussions,
under the overarching theme, "BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Security and Prosperity”, were conducted in an atmosphere of cordiality and warmth and inspired by a shared desire to further strengthen our partnership for common development and take our
cooperation forward on the basis of openness, solidarity, mutual understanding and trust.

We met against the backdrop of developments and changes of contemporary global and regional importance - a faltering global recovery made more complex by the situation in the euro zone; concerns of sustainable development and climate change which take on
greater relevance as we approach the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) and the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity being hosted in Brazil and India respectively later this year; the upcoming G20 Summit in Mexico
and the recent 8th WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva; and the developing political scenario in the Middle East and North Africa that we view with increasing concern. Our deliberations today reflected our consensus to remain engaged with the world community
as we address these challenges to global well-being and stability in a responsible and constructive manner.

BRICS is a platform for dialogue and cooperation amongst countries that represent 43% of the world’s population, for the promotion of peace, security and development in a multi-polar, inter-dependent and increasingly complex, globalizing world. Coming,
as we do, from Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America, the transcontinental dimension of our interaction adds to its value and significance.

We envision a future marked by global peace, economic and social progress and enlightened scientific temper. We stand ready to work with others, developed and developing countries together, on the basis of universally recognized norms of international law
and multilateral decision making, to deal with the challenges and the opportunities before the world today. Strengthened representation of emerging and developing countries in the institutions of global governance will enhance their effectiveness in achieving
this objective.

We are concerned over the current global economic situation. While the BRICS recovered relatively quickly from the global crisis, growth prospects worldwide have again got dampened by market instability especially in the euro zone. The build-up of sovereign
debt and concerns over medium to long-term fiscal adjustment in advanced countries are creating an uncertain environment for global growth. Further, excessive liquidity from the aggressive policy actions taken by central banks to stabilize their domestic economies
have been spilling over into emerging market economies, fostering excessive volatility in capital flows and commodity prices. The immediate priority at hand is to restore market confidence and get global growth back on track. We will work with the international
community to ensure international policy coordination to maintain macroeconomic stability conducive to the healthy recovery of the global economy.

We believe that it is critical for advanced economies to adopt responsible macroeconomic and financial policies, avoid creating excessive global liquidity and undertake structural reforms to lift growth that create jobs. We draw attention to the risks of
large and volatile cross-border capital flows being faced by the emerging economies. We call for further international financial regulatory oversight and reform, strengthening policy coordination and financial regulation and supervision cooperation, and promoting
the sound development of global financial markets and banking systems.

In this context, we believe that the primary role of the G20 as premier forum for international economic cooperation at this juncture is to facilitate enhanced macroeconomic policy coordination, to enable global economic recovery and secure financial stability,
including through an improved international monetary and financial architecture. We approach the next G20 Summit in Mexico with a commitment to work with the Presidency, all members and the international community to achieve positive results, consistent with
national policy frameworks, to ensure strong, sustainable and balanced growth.

We recognize the importance of the global financial architecture in maintaining the stability and integrity of the global monetary and financial system. We therefore call for a more representative international financial architecture, with an increase in
the voice and representation of developing countries and the establishment and improvement of a just international monetary system that can serve the interests of all countries and support the development of emerging and developing economies. Moreover, these
economies having experienced broad-based growth are now significant contributors to global recovery.

We are however concerned at the slow pace of quota and governance reforms in the IMF. We see an urgent need to implement, as agreed, the 2010 Governance and Quota Reform before the 2012 IMF/World Bank Annual Meeting, as well as the comprehensive review
of the quota formula to better reflect economic weights and enhance the voice and representation of emerging market and developing countries by January 2013, followed by the completion of the next general quota review by January 2014. This dynamic process
of reform is necessary to ensure the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Fund. We stress that the ongoing effort to increase the lending capacity of the IMF will only be successful if there is confidence that the entire membership of the institution is truly
committed to implement the 2010 Reform faithfully. We will work with the international community to ensure that sufficient resources can be mobilized to the IMF in a timely manner as the Fund continues its transition to improve governance and legitimacy. We
reiterate our support for measures to protect the voice and representation of the IMF's poorest members.

We call upon the IMF to make its surveillance framework more integrated and even-handed, noting that IMF proposals for a new integrated decision on surveillance would be considered before the IMF Spring Meeting.

In the current global economic environment, we recognise that there is a pressing need for enhancing the flow of development finance to emerging and developing countries. We therefore call upon the World Bank to give greater priority to mobilising resources
and meeting the needs of development finance while reducing lending costs and adopting innovative lending tools.

We welcome the candidatures from developing world for the position of the President of the World Bank. We reiterate that the Heads of IMF and World Bank be selected through an open and merit-based process. Furthermore, the new World Bank leadership must
commit to transform the Bank into a multilateral institution that truly reflects the vision of all its members, including the governance structure that reflects current economic and political reality. Moreover, the nature of the Bank must shift from an institution
that essentially mediates North-South cooperation to an institution that promotes equal partnership with all countries as a way to deal with development issues and to overcome an outdated donor- recipient dichotomy.

We have considered the possibility of setting up a new Development Bank for mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging economies and developing countries, to supplement the existing efforts of
multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development. We direct our Finance Ministers to examine the feasibility and viability of such an initiative, set up a joint working group for further study, and report back to us by the
next Summit.

Brazil, India, China and South Africa look forward to the Russian Presidency of G20 in 2013 and extend their cooperation.

Brazil, India, China and South Africa congratulate the Russian Federation on its accession to the WTO. This makes the WTO more representative and strengthens the rule-based multilateral trading system. We commit to working together to safeguard this system
and urge other countries to resist all forms of trade protectionism and disguised restrictions on trade.

We will continue our efforts for the successful conclusion of the Doha Round, based on the progress made and in keeping with its mandate. Towards this end, we will explore outcomes in specific areas where progress is possible while preserving the centrality
of development and within the overall framework of the single undertaking. We do not support plurilateral initiatives that go against the fundamental principles of transparency, inclusiveness and multilateralism. We believe that such initiatives not only distract
members from striving for a collective outcome but also fail to address the development deficit inherited from previous negotiating rounds. Once the ratification process is completed, Russia intends to participate in an active and constructive manner for a
balanced outcome of the Doha Round that will help strengthen and develop the multilateral trade system.

Considering UNCTAD to be the focal point in the UN system for the treatment of trade and development issues, we intend to invest in improving its traditional activities of consensus-building, technical cooperation and research on issues of economic development
and trade. We reiterate our willingness to actively contribute to the achievement of a successful UNCTAD XIII, in April 2012.

We agree to build upon our synergies and to work together to intensify trade and investment flows among our countries to advance our respective industrial development and employment objectives.We welcome the outcomes of the second Meeting of BRICS Trade
Ministers held in New Delhi on 28 March 2012. We support the regular consultations amongst our Trade Ministers and consider taking suitable measures to facilitate further consolidation of our trade and economic ties. We welcome the conclusion of the Master
Agreement on Extending Credit Facility in Local Currency under BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism and the Multilateral Letter of Credit Confirmation Facility Agreement between our EXIM/Development Banks. We believe that these Agreements will serve as useful
enabling instruments for enhancing intra-BRICS trade in coming years.

We recognize the vital importance that stability, peace and security of the Middle East and North Africa holds for all of us, for the international community, and above all for the countries and their citizens themselves whose lives have been affected by
the turbulence that has erupted in the region. We wish to see these countries living in peace and regain stability and prosperity as respected members of the global community.

We agree that the period of transformation taking place in the Middle East and North Africa should not be used as a pretext to delay resolution of lasting conflicts but rather it should serve as an incentive to settle them, in particular the Arab-Israeli
conflict. Resolution of this and other long-standing regional issues would generally improve the situation in the Middle East and North Africa. Thus we confirm our commitment to achieving comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict
on the basis of the universally recognized international legal framework including the relevant UN resolutions, the Madrid principles and the Arab Peace Initiative. We encourage the Quartet to intensify its efforts and call for greater involvement of the UN
Security Council in search for a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We also underscore the importance of direct negotiations between the parties to reach final settlement. We call upon Palestinians and Israelis to take constructive measures, rebuild
mutual trust and create the right conditions for restarting negotiations, while avoiding unilateral steps, in particular settlement activity in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

We express our deep concern at the current situation in Syria and call for an immediate end to all violence and violations of human rights in that country. Global interests would best be served by dealing with the crisis through peaceful means that encourage
broad national dialogues that reflect the legitimate aspirations of all sections of Syrian society and respect Syrian independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. Our objective is to facilitate a Syrian-led inclusive political process, and we welcome
the joint efforts of the United Nations and the Arab League to this end. We encourage the Syrian government and all sections of Syrian society to demonstrate the political will to initiate such a process, which alone can create a new environment for peace.
We welcome the appointment of Mr. Kofi Annan as the Joint Special Envoy on the Syrian crisis and the progress made so far, and support him in continuing to play a constructive role in bringing about the political resolution of the crisis.

The situation concerning Iran cannot be allowed to escalate into conflict, the disastrous consequences of which will be in no one’s interest. Iran has a crucial role to play for the peaceful development and prosperity of a region of high political and economic
relevance, and we look to it to play its part as a responsible member of the global community. We are concerned about the situation that is emerging around Iran’s nuclear issue. We recognize Iran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy consistent with its
international obligations, and support resolution of the issues involved through political and diplomatic means and dialogue between the parties concerned, including between the IAEA and Iran and in accordance with the provisions of the relevant UN Security
Council Resolutions.

Afghanistan needs time, development assistance and cooperation, preferential access to world markets, foreign investment and a clear end-state strategy to attain lasting peace and stability. We support the global community’s commitment to Afghanistan, enunciated
at the Bonn International Conference in December 2011, to remain engaged over the transformation decade from 2015-2024. We affirm our commitment to support Afghanistan’s emergence as a peaceful, stable and democratic state, free of terrorism and extremism,
and underscore the need for more effective regional and international cooperation for the stabilisation of Afghanistan, including by combating terrorism.

We extend support to the efforts aimed at combating illicit traffic in opiates originating in Afghanistan within the framework of the Paris Pact.

We reiterate that there can be no justification, whatsoever, for any act of terrorism in any form or manifestation. We reaffirm our determination to strengthen cooperation in countering this menace and believe that the United Nations has a central role
in coordinating international action against terrorism, within the framework of the UN Charter and in accordance with principles and norms of international law. We emphasize the need for an early finalization of the draft of the Comprehensive Convention on
International Terrorism in the UN General Assembly and its adoption by all Member States to provide a comprehensive legal framework to address this global scourge.

We express our strong commitment to multilateral diplomacy with the United Nations playing a central role in dealing with global challenges and threats. In this regard, we reaffirm the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council,
with a view to making it more effective, efficient and representative so that it can deal with today’s global challenges more successfully. China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status of Brazil, India and South Africa in international
affairs and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN.

We recall our close coordination in the Security Council during the year 2011, and underscore our commitment to work together in the UN to continue our cooperation and strengthen multilateral approaches on issues pertaining to global peace and security
in the years to come.

Accelerating growth and sustainable development, along with food, and energy security, are amongst the most important challenges facing the world today, and central to addressing economic development, eradicating poverty, combating hunger and malnutrition
in many developing countries. Creating jobs needed to improve people’s living standards worldwide is critical. Sustainable development is also a key element of our agenda for global recovery and investment for future growth. We owe this responsibility to our
future generations.

We congratulate South Africa on the successful hosting of the 17th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the 7th Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP17/CMP7)
in December 2011. We welcome the significant outcomes of the Conference and are ready to work with the international community to implement its decisions in accordance with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective
capabilities.

We are fully committed to playing our part in the global fight against climate change and will contribute to the global effort in dealing with climate change issues through sustainable and inclusive growth and not by capping development. We emphasize that
developed country Parties to the UNFCCC shall provide enhanced financial, technology and capacity building support for the preparation and implementation of nationally appropriate mitigation actions of developing countries.

We believe that the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) is a unique opportunity for the international community to renew its high-level political commitment to supporting the overarching sustainable development framework encompassing inclusive
economic growth and development, social progress and environment protection in accordance with the principles and provisions of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, including the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, Agenda
21 and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation.

We consider that sustainable development should be the main paradigm in environmental issues, as well as for economic and social strategies. We acknowledge the relevance and focus of the main themes for the Conference namely, Green Economy in the context
of Sustainable Development and Poverty Eradication (GESDPE) as well as Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development (IFSD).

China, Russia, India and South Africa look forward to working with Brazil as the host of this important Conference in June, for a successful and practical outcome. Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa also pledge their support to working with India as
it hosts the 11th meeting of the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in October 2012 and look forward to a positive outcome. We will continue our efforts for the implementation of the Convention and its Protocols, with special attention
to the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization, Biodiversity Strategic Plan 2011-2020 and the Resource Mobilization Strategy.

We affirm that the concept of a ‘green economy’, still to be defined at Rio+20, must be understood in the larger framework of sustainable development and poverty eradication and is a means to achieve these fundamental and overriding priorities, not an end
in itself. National authorities must be given the flexibility and policy space to make their own choices out of a broad menu of options and define their paths towards sustainable development based on the country's stage of development, national strategies,
circumstances and priorities. We resist the introduction of trade and investment barriers in any form on the grounds of developing green economy.

The Millennium Development Goals remain a fundamental milestone in the development agenda. To enable developing countries to obtain maximal results in attaining their Millennium Development Goals by the agreed time-line of 2015, we must ensure that growth
in these countries is not affected. Any slowdown would have serious consequences for the world economy. Attainment of the MDGs is fundamental to ensuring inclusive, equitable and sustainable global growth and would require continued focus on these goals even
beyond 2015, entailing enhanced financing support.

We attach the highest importance to economic growth that supports development and stability in Africa, as many of these countries have not yet realised their full economic potential. We will take our cooperation forward to support their efforts to accelerate
the diversification and modernisation of their economies. This will be through infrastructure development, knowledge exchange and support for increased access to technology, enhanced capacity building, and investment in human capital, including within the
framework of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD).

We express our commitment to the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis that still affects millions of people in the Horn of Africa and support international efforts to this end.

Excessive volatility in commodity prices, particularly those for food and energy, poses additional risks for the recovery of the world economy. Improved regulation of the derivatives market for commodities is essential to avoid destabilizing impacts on
food and energy supplies. We believe that increased energy production capacities and strengthened producer-consumer dialogue are important initiatives that would help in arresting such price volatility.

Energy based on fossil fuels will continue to dominate the energy mix for the foreseeable future. We will expand sourcing of clean and renewable energy, and use of energy efficient and alternative technologies, to meet the increasing demand of our economies
and our people, and respond to climate concerns as well. In this context, we emphasise that international cooperation in the development of safe nuclear energy for peaceful purposes should proceed under conditions of strict observance of relevant safety standards
and requirements concerning design, construction and operation of nuclear power plants. We stress IAEA's essential role in the joint efforts of the international community towards enhancing nuclear safety standards with a view to increasing public confidence
in nuclear energy as a clean, affordable, safe and secure source of energy, vital to meeting global energy demands.

We have taken note of the substantive efforts made in taking intra-BRICS cooperation forward in a number of sectors so far. We are convinced that there is a storehouse of knowledge, know-how, capacities and best practices available in our countries that
we can share and on which we can build meaningful cooperation for the benefit of our peoples. We have endorsed an Action Plan for the coming year with this objective.

We appreciate the outcomes of the Second Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Agriculture and Agrarian Development at Chengdu, China in October 2011. We direct our Ministers to take this process forward with particular focus on the potential of cooperation amongst
the BRICS to contribute effectively to global food security and nutrition through improved agriculture production and productivity, transparency in markets and reducing excessive volatility in commodity prices, thereby making a difference in the quality of
lives of the people particularly in the developing world.

Most of BRICS countries face a number of similar public health challenges, including universal access to health services, access to health technologies, including medicines, increasing costs and the growing burden of both communicable and non-communicable
diseases. We direct that the BRICS Health Ministers meetings, of which the first was held in Beijing in July 2011, should henceforth be institutionalized in order to address these common challenges in the most cost-effective, equitable and sustainable manner.

We have taken note of the meeting of S&T Senior Officials in Dalian, China in September 2011, and, in particular, the growing capacities for research and development and innovation in our countries. We encourage this process both in priority areas of food,
pharma, health and energy as well as basic research in the emerging inter-disciplinary fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, advanced materials science, etc. We encourage flow of knowledge amongst our research institutions through joint projects, workshops
and exchanges of young scientists.

The challenges of rapid urbanization, faced by all developing societies including our own, are multi-dimensional in nature covering a diversity of inter-linked issues. We direct our respective authorities to coordinate efforts and learn from best practices
and technologies available that can make a meaningful difference to our societies. We note with appreciation the first meeting of BRICS Friendship Cities held in Sanya in December 2011 and will take this process forward with an Urbanization and Urban Infrastructure
Forum along with the Second BRICS Friendship Cities and Local Governments Cooperation Forum.

Given our growing needs for renewable energy resources as well as on energy efficient and environmentally friendly technologies, and our complementary strengths in these areas, we agree to exchange knowledge, know-how, technology and best practices in these
areas.

It gives us pleasure to release the first ever BRICS Report, coordinated by India, with its special focus on the synergies and complementarities in our economies. We welcome the outcomes of the cooperation among the National Statistical Institutions of
BRICS and take note that the updated edition of the BRICS Statistical Publication, released today, serves as a useful reference on BRICS countries.

We express our satisfaction at the convening of the III BRICS Business Forum and the II Financial Forum and acknowledge their role in stimulating trade relations among our countries. In this context, we welcome the setting up of BRICS Exchange Alliance,
a joint initiative by related BRICS securities exchanges.

We encourage expanding the channels of communication, exchanges and people-to-people contact amongst the BRICS, including in the areas of youth, education, culture, tourism and sports.

Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa extend their warm appreciation and sincere gratitude to the Government and the people of India for hosting the Fourth BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Brazil, Russia, India and China thank South Africa for its offer to host the Fifth BRICS Summit in 2013 and pledge their full support.

Under the dialogue process between India and Pakistan, the delegations of the two countries met in New Delhi from 27-28 March 2012, to discuss the Tulbul Navigation / Wullar Barrage Project. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Dhruv Vijai Singh, Secretary
Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India and the Pakistan delegation was led by Mr. Imtiaz Kazi, Secretary Ministry of Water and Power, Government of Pakistan. Secretary Kazi and some members of Pakistan delegation called on H.E. Mr. Vincent H. Pala,
Minister of State for Water Resources, Government of India.

The talks were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. The two sides reiterated their commitment to bilateral engagement in a spirit of constructive cooperation. They discussed their respective positions on the Project while reaffirming the commitment
to the Indus Waters Treaty 1960.

Both sides emphasized the need for an early and amicable resolution of the issue within the ambit of the Indus Waters Treaty. In order to address the concerns of both countries, it was agreed that the Indian side will provide additional technical data to
Pakistan. The Pakistan side shall examine all the data and furnish its views before the next round of the Talks. Both sides further agreed that, if required, they will explore the way forward for resolving the issue under the provisions of the Treaty.

International Legal Instruments: India is party to all the 13 universal instruments accepted as benchmarks for a State’s commitment to combat international terrorism. India is party to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear
Material and is amongst the few countries which have also ratified the 2005 amendment to the Convention. India looks forward to early entry into force of the 2005 Amendment. India is also Party to the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of
Nuclear Terrorism. India supports efforts for promoting the universality of these two Conventions.

International Atomic Energy Agency: India has consistently supported IAEA’s central role in facilitating national efforts to strengthen nuclear security and in fostering effective international cooperation. India is a member of the IAEA
Commission on Nuclear Safety Standards and the Advisory Group on Nuclear Security. India has been actively involved in the preparation of the Nuclear Security Series documents produced by the IAEA. India has actively contributed to IAEA’s Action Plans on Nuclear
Security, including third plan for 2010-2013. India as a partner to the IAEA-US Regional Radiological Security Partnership (RRSP) has been organizing international training courses in India under the aegis of the IAEA. India offered assistance through the
IAEA for search and recovery of orphan radioactive sources in countries which were unable to effectively deal with them and had sought such assistance. India commends the Agency’s efforts to develop a Nuclear Security Information Portal and its efforts in
developing a comprehensive set of guidance documents under the Nuclear Security Series.

We support the fifth revision of the recommendations contained in INFCIRC/225. We look forward to sustainable Agency activities in the area of nuclear security training and education and appreciate the assistance provided by the Agency to educational institutions
in the area of Nuclear Security. India is a participant in the IAEA’s Illicit Trafficking Database (ITDB), which was established in 1995 and disseminates information on confirmed reports about illicit trafficking and other unauthorized activities and events
involving nuclear radioactive materials to the States. India has been supportive of the 2003 IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources and voluntarily adopted its provisions. India has also conducted 9 regional training seminars
on nuclear security in cooperation with the IAEA. Conclusion of Practical Arrangements between GCNEP and the IAEA would reinforce India’s cooperation with the Agency.

UN and other mechanisms: Since 2002, India has piloted a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly on measures to prevent terrorists gaining access to Weapons of Mass Destruction. This resolution has been adopted by the General
Assembly by consensus. India fully supports the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540, its extension resolution 1977, and the United Nations Global Counter Terrorism Strategy. India is also a party to Global Initiative to Combat
Nuclear Terrorism and has participated in its working groups on nuclear detection, nuclear forensics and response and mitigation. While nuclear security is being addressed at different foras, there is need to ensure that these efforts are mutually complementary
and reinforce the related activities of the IAEA. We also cooperate with the Interpol’s Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Unit and the World Customs Organization. India participated in the High Level Meeting called by the UN Secretary General on
Nuclear Safety and Security on 22 September 2011.

National legal framework: The Indian Atomic Energy Act 1962 provides the legal framework for securing nuclear materials and facilities. Amendments to this Act are under consideration to further strengthen the legal basis for nuclear security
measures. In June 2005, India enacted the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005. Updating of the export control lists and related regulations are undertaken as a continuous ongoing process. India
has adhered to NSG Guidelines and has expressed interest in full membership of the NSG and other international export control regimes. India is taking a number of measures to strengthen nuclear security. The Government has introduced a bill in Parliament for
the establishment of an independent Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority which will also enhance oversight of nuclear security and strengthen synergy between safety and security.

Reducing Nuclear Material: With regard to minimization of use of civilian HEU, the enriched uranium based fuel in the APSARA reactor was placed in a safeguarded facility in December 2010. APSARA will use indigenous fuel which is not high
enriched uranium. However, there is a growing demand for large-scale production of isotopes for a range of applications- healthcare, industry, food and agriculture. India’s three stage nuclear programme is based on a closed nuclear fuel cycle, the principle
of ‘reprocess-to-reuse’ and ensuring control over nuclear material at all stages. It is also important that technology is continually upgraded to develop nuclear systems that are intrinsically safe, secure and proliferation resistant. We have recently developed
an Advanced Heavy Water Reactor based on Low Enriched Uranium and thorium with new safety and proliferation-resistant features.

International Cooperation: India has close cooperation with the IAEA’s Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT). India has signed tripartite Agreements with IAEA and Sri Lanka and Namibia to donate our indigenously developed Cobalt
teletherapy machine (Bhabhatron II) to these two countries as a step towards affordable treatment of Cancer. A similar machine was donated to Vietnam in 2008.

Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP): At the first Nuclear Security Summit, India announced that it would establish a Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership. We visualize this to be a state of the art facility based
on international participation from the IAEA and other interested foreign partners. (Cooperation MOUs/Practical Arrangements have been concluded with some countries and the IAEA). To begin with, the Centre will consist of four Schools dealing with Advanced
Nuclear Energy System Studies, Nuclear Security, Radiation Safety, and the application of Radioisotopes and Radiation Technology in the areas of healthcare, agriculture and food. The Centre will conduct research and development of design systems that are intrinsically
safe, secure, proliferation resistant and sustainable, as we believe such technological solutions will strengthen nuclear security in the long run. The Centre will carry out research and development in radiation monitoring including development of detectors
and nuclear emergency management. The Centre will also have state of the art training facilities for Indian and international participants and research by Indian and visiting international scientists. We are interested in development and conduct of courses
in association with interested countries and the IAEA. An "off-campus” training course on Physical Protection was organized under GCNEP auspices in November 2011 for 25 participants, including 17 foreign nationals. Further courses planned for 2012 include:
Prevention, Preparedness and Reponses involving malicious acts with radioactive materials, Medical Management, Safeguard Practices etc.

Nuclear Security Summit Process: India supports implementation of the Washington Summit Communiqué and Work Plan. India contributed to the NSS process, including by hosting a meeting of the Sherpas in New Delhi 16-17 January 2012.

Seoul
March 27, 2012

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MEA1907419083Seoul Nuclear Security Summit CommuniqueWe, the leaders, gathered in Seoul on March 26-27, 2012, renew the political commitments generated from the 2010 Washington Nuclear Security Summit to work toward strengthening nuclear security, reducing the threat of nuclear terrorism, and preventing terrorists,
criminals, or other unauthorized actors from acquiring nuclear materials. Nuclear terrorism continues to be one of the most challenging threats to international security. Defeating this threat requires strong national measures and international cooperation
given its potential global political, economic, social, and psychological consequences.

Committed to seeking a safer world for all, we also all share the objective of nuclear security. We recognize that the Nuclear Security Summit is a valuable process at the highest political level, supporting our joint call to secure all vulnerable nuclear material
in four years. In this regard, we welcome the substantive progress being made on the political commitments of Participating States since the Washington Summit.

We stress the fundamental responsibility of States, consistent with their respective national and international obligations, to maintain effective security of all nuclear material, which includes nuclear materials used in nuclear weapons, and nuclear facilities
under their control, and to prevent non-state actors from acquiring such materials and from obtaining information or technology required to use them for malicious purposes. We likewise recognize the fundamental responsibility of States to maintain effective
security of other radioactive materials.

We reaffirm that measures to strengthen nuclear security will not hamper the rights of States to develop and utilize nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

Noting the essential role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in facilitating international cooperation and supporting the efforts of States to fulfill their nuclear security responsibilities, we further stress the importance of regional and international
cooperation, and encourage States to promote cooperation with and outreach activities to international partners.

Noting the Fukushima accident of March 2011 and the nexus between nuclear security and nuclear safety, we consider that sustained efforts are required to address the issues of nuclear safety and nuclear security in a coherent manner that will help ensure the
safe and secure peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

We will continue to use the Washington Communiqué and Work Plan as a basis for our future work in advancing our nuclear security objectives. At this Seoul Summit, we agree that we will make every possible effort to achieve further progress in the following
important areas.

Global Nuclear Security Architecture

We recognize the importance of multilateral instruments that address nuclear security, such as the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM), as amended, and the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism
(ICSANT). We therefore encourage the universal adherence to these Conventions. We urge states in a position to do so to accelerate their domestic approval of the 2005 Amendment to the CPPNM, seeking to bring the Amendment into force by 2014. We acknowledge
the important role of the United Nations (UN) in promoting nuclear security, support the UN Security Council Resolutions 1540 and 1977 in strengthening global nuclear security, and welcome the extension of its mandate. We will strive to use the IAEA Physical
Protection of Nuclear Material and Nuclear Facilities (INFCIRC/225/Rev.5) document and related Nuclear Security Series documents, and reflect them into national practice.

We recognize the contributions since the 2010 Summit of international initiatives and processes such as the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT) and Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction, within
their respective mandates and memberships. We welcome the wider participation in the GICNT and the Global Partnership and value its extension beyond 2012. Noting the importance of strengthening coordination and complementarity among nuclear security activities,
we welcome the proposal of the IAEA to organize an international conference in 2013. We welcome contributions from the industry, academia, institutes and civil society that promote nuclear security.

Role of the IAEA

We reaffirm the essential responsibility and central role of the IAEA in strengthening the international nuclear security framework, and recognize the value of the IAEA Nuclear Security Plan 2010-2013. We will work to ensure that the IAEA continues to have
the appropriate structure, resources and expertise needed to support the implementation of nuclear security objectives. To this end, we encourage States in a position to do so and the nuclear industry to increase voluntary contributions to the IAEA’s Nuclear
Security Fund, as well as in-kind contributions. We also encourage continued IAEA activities to assist, upon request, national efforts to establish and enhance nuclear security infrastructure through its various support programs, and encourage States to make
use of these IAEA resources.

Nuclear Materials

Recognizing that highly enriched uranium (HEU) and separated plutonium require special precautions, we reemphasize the importance of appropriately securing, accounting for and consolidating these materials. We also encourage States to consider the safe,
secure and timely removal and disposition of nuclear materials from facilities no longer using them, as appropriate, and consistent with national security considerations and development objectives.

We recognize that the development, within the framework of the IAEA, of options for national policies on HEU management will advance nuclear security objectives. We encourage States to take measures to minimize the use of HEU, including through the conversion
of reactors from highly enriched to low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel, where technically and economically feasible, taking into account the need for assured supplies of medical isotopes, and encourage States in a position to do so, by the end of 2013, to announce
voluntary specific actions intended to minimize the use of HEU. We also encourage States to promote the use of LEU fuels and targets in commercial applications such as isotope production, and in this regard, welcome relevant international cooperation on high-density
LEU fuel to support the conversion of research and test reactors.

Radioactive Sources

Taking into account that radioactive sources are widely used and can be vulnerable to malicious acts, we urge States to secure these materials, while bearing in mind their uses in industrial, medical, agricultural and research applications. To this end,
we encourage States in a position to do so to continue to work towards the process of ratifying or acceding to the ICSANT; reflect into national practices relevant IAEA Nuclear Security Series documents, the IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security
of Radioactive Sources and its supplementary document on the IAEA Guidance on the Import and Export of Radioactive Sources; and establish national registers of high-activity radioactive sources where required. We also commit to work closely with the IAEA to
encourage cooperation on advanced technologies and systems, share best practices on the management of radioactive sources, and provide technical assistance to States upon their request. In addition, we encourage continued national efforts and international
cooperation to recover lost, missing or stolen sources and to maintain control over disused sources.

Nuclear Security and Safety

Acknowledging that safety measures and security measures have in common the aim of protecting human life and health and the environment, we affirm that nuclear security and nuclear safety measures should be designed, implemented and managed in nuclear facilities
in a coherent and synergistic manner. We also affirm the need to maintain effective emergency preparedness, response and mitigation capabilities in a manner that addresses both nuclear security and nuclear safety. In this regard, we welcome the efforts of
the IAEA to organize meetings to provide relevant recommendations on the interface between nuclear security and nuclear safety so that neither security nor safety is compromised. We also welcome the convening of the High Level Meeting on Nuclear Safety and
Security initiated by the UN Secretary-General, held in New York on 22 September 2011. Noting that the security of nuclear and other radioactive materials also includes spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste, we encourage States to consider establishing
appropriate plans for the management of these materials.

Transportation Security

We will continue efforts to enhance the security of nuclear and other radioactive materials while in domestic and international transport, and encourage States to share best practices and cooperate in acquiring the necessary technologies to this end. Recognizing
the importance of a national layered defense against the loss or theft of nuclear and other radioactive materials, we encourage the establishment of effective national nuclear material inventory management and domestic tracking mechanisms, where required,
that enable States to take appropriate measures to recover lost and stolen materials.

Combating Illicit Trafficking

We underscore the need to develop national capabilities to prevent, detect, respond to and prosecute illicit nuclear trafficking. In this regard, we encourage action-oriented coordination among national capacities to combat illicit trafficking, consistent
with national laws and regulations. We will work to enhance technical capabilities in the field of national inspection and detection of nuclear and other radioactive materials at the borders. Noting that several countries have passed export control laws to
regulate nuclear transfers, we encourage further utilization of legal, intelligence and financial tools to effectively prosecute offenses, as appropriate and consistent with national laws. In addition, we encourage States to participate in the IAEA Illicit
Trafficking Database program and to provide necessary information relating to nuclear and other radioactive materials outside of regulatory control. We will work to strengthen cooperation among States and encourage them to share information, consistent with
national regulations, on individuals involved in trafficking offenses of nuclear and other radioactive materials, including through INTERPOL’s Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism Prevention Unit and the World Customs Organization.

Nuclear Forensics

We recognize that nuclear forensics can be an effective tool in determining the origin of detected nuclear and other radioactive materials and in providing evidence for the prosecution of acts of illicit trafficking and malicious uses. In this regard, we
encourage States to work with one another, as well as with the IAEA, to develop and enhance nuclear forensics capabilities. In this regard, they may combine the skills of both traditional and nuclear forensics through the development of a common set of definitions
and standards, undertake research and share information and best practices, as appropriate. We also underscore the importance of international cooperation both in technology and human resource development to advance nuclear forensics.

Nuclear Security Culture

Recognizing that investment in human capacity building is fundamental to promoting and sustaining a strong nuclear security culture, we encourage States to share best practices and build national capabilities, including through bilateral and multilateral
cooperation. At the national level, we encourage all stakeholders, including the government, regulatory bodies, industry, academia, non-governmental organizations and the media, to fully commit to enhancing security culture and to maintain robust communication
and coordination of activities. We also encourage States to promote human resource development through education and training. In this regard, we welcome the establishment of Centers of Excellence and other nuclear security training and support centers since
the Washington Summit, and encourage the establishment of new centers. Furthermore, we welcome the effort by the IAEA to promote networking among such centers to share experience and lessons learned and to optimize available resources. We also note the holding
of the Nuclear Industry Summit and the Nuclear Security Symposium on the eve of the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit.

Information Security

We recognize the importance of preventing non-state actors from obtaining information, technology or expertise required to acquire or use nuclear materials for malicious purposes, or to disrupt information technology based control systems at nuclear facilities.
We therefore encourage States to: continue to develop and strengthen national and facility-level measures for the effective management of such information, including information on the procedures and protocols to protect nuclear materials and facilities; to
support relevant capacity building projects; and to enhance cyber security measures concerning nuclear facilities, consistent with the IAEA General Conference Resolution on Nuclear Security(GC(55)/Res/10) and bearing in mind the International Telecommunication
Union Resolution 174. We also encourage States to: promote a security culture that emphasizes the need to protect nuclear security related information; engage with scientific, industrial and academic communities in the pursuit of common solutions; and support
the IAEA in producing and disseminating improved guidance on protecting information.

International Cooperation

We encourage all States to enhance their physical protection of and accounting system for nuclear materials, emergency preparedness and response capabilities and relevant legal and regulatory framework. In this context, we encourage the international community
to increase international cooperation and to provide assistance, upon request, to countries in need on a bilateral, regional, and multilateral level, as appropriate. In particular, we welcome the intent by the IAEA to continue to lead efforts to assist States,
upon request. We also reaffirm the need for various public diplomacy and outreach efforts to enhance public awareness of actions taken and capacities built to address threats to nuclear security, including the threat of nuclear terrorism.

We will continue to make voluntary and substantive efforts toward strengthening nuclear security and implementing political commitments made in this regard. We welcome the information on the progress made in the field of nuclear security since the Washington
Summit provided by the participants at this Seoul Summit. The next Nuclear Security Summit will be held in [the Netherlands] in 2014.

The Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh paid an Official Visit to the Republic of Korea (ROK), at the invitation of President Lee Myung-bak, on 25 March 2012. The Prime Minister of India, his spouse Shrimati Gursharan Kaur and the accompanying delegation
were received with great warmth and accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Blue House. Prime Minister Singh held a restricted summit meeting with President Lee, followed by delegation level talks. Thereafter, a luncheon banquet was hosted by President Lee in
honour of the visiting dignitary and his delegation.

During the summit meeting, Prime Minister Singh and President Lee conducted a thorough review of and hailed the multifaceted bilateral relationship, which has rapidly acquired greater depth and vitality since its elevation to a Strategic Partnership during
the landmark State visit to India of President Lee in January 2010. They agreed that the State visit of President Shrimati Pratibha Devisingh Patil to the Republic of Korea in July 2011, had imparted further momentum to the engagement and dialogue process
between the two countries. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at regular high-level exchanges, steadily growing economic, trade, security and cultural ties, as well as robust people-to-people exchanges. They examined ways to further enhance ties, underscoring
the mutual convergence of interests and outlook between these two democracies of Asia.

The two leaders also held wide-ranging discussions on regional, international and multilateral issues. It was noted that India – Republic of Korea relations were of mutual advantage and were conducive to peace, progress and stability in our respective regions,
in the whole of Asia and even beyond.

Strengthening Political and Security Cooperation

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee, appreciating the role of the India-ROK Joint Commission (JCM) co-chaired by the Foreign Minister and External Affairs Minister of the two countries, reaffirmed that the Commission meet every year, alternately in Seoul
and New Delhi. It was also decided that the seventh meeting of the Joint Commission will be held in New Delhi at the earliest date this year.

The two leaders shared the view that the Foreign Policy & Security Dialogue (FPSD) at the level of Vice Foreign Minister, MOFAT and Secretary (East), MEA was a useful instrument to exchange views and harmonize positions on a vast variety of bilateral, regional
and international issues. It was agreed to hold the next meeting of the FPSD soon within this year in New Delhi.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of defense and security. Prime Minister Singh conveyed India’s decision to set up a defense wing at the Embassy of India, Seoul within this year, which was welcomed
by President Lee.

The two sides exchanged views on the prevailing complex security situation and underlined the need to actively pursue consultations and cooperation in the field of maritime safety and security both bilaterally and in association with other countries of
the region.

The ROK side recalled the timely and useful visit of Defense Minister A K Antony in September 2010, which provided an excellent opportunity for both sides to exchange views on the entire range of defense and security issues. It was agreed that the Defense
Minister of ROK would pay a return visit to India later this year.

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee also agreed to continue high-level exchanges between the defense establishments of both sides, undertake activities as mutually agreed for deepening bilateral defense relations and to explore the possibilities of joint
ventures in research & development and manufacture of military equipment, including through the transfer of technology and co-production. President Lee underscored that the ROK side wanted to increase cooperation with India in military and defense industry
including, inter alia, naval ships, aircrafts, and ship-building.

Expanding Economic and Trade Cooperation

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee noted with satisfaction that bilateral trade had increased by around 70 percent in two years since the entry into force of the India - ROK Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on 1 January, 2010, crossing
the $ 20 billion mark in 2011. A Joint Committee has already been instituted at the level of Trade/Commerce Ministers to regularly review the working of CEPA and upgrade it as and when required. The first meeting of the Joint Committee had taken place in New
Delhi on 20th January 2011. It was agreed to have the second Ministerial Committee meeting in Seoul this year.

The two leaders agreed to set a new bilateral trade target of US$ 40 billion by 2015. Prime Minister Singh underlined the desirability of balanced trade relations, which would facilitate a robust growth rate in the long term. It was agreed that both sides
would explore constructive and forward looking ways to facilitate greater market access to each other’s products and services. Prime Minister Singh reiterated that the Indian side was hopeful of providing ROK with pharmaceutical and agricultural products,
as well as, IT enabled services.

Prime Minister Singh apprised his host of India’s efforts to strengthen the national infrastructure and plans to invest $ 1 trillion in infrastructure development between 2012-17. Noting the enviable track record of Korean companies in successfully executing
infrastructure projects all over the globe, Prime Minister Singh invited them to actively participate in the construction projects for highways, ports, airports, metros and power plants being regularly launched in India. Prime Minister Singh pointed out that
India followed a transparent and competitive bidding process, which was open to qualified companies from all countries.

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee welcomed the growing presence and investments of Korean companies in India and those of Indian companies in ROK, which had been stimulated by the bilateral CEPA. They also agreed to explore new possibilities for joint
investment in third countries. The two leaders also reaffirmed the importance of implementing the POSCO project in the State of Odisha.

The two leaders welcomed the steady growth in travel between the two countries, reflective of enhanced business and people to people exchanges. They agreed to increase mutual efforts to further improve air connectivity between the two countries. It was
also agreed to hold the next round of civil aviation talks at an early date, to examine various proposals on the table, including the increase of the capacity entitlements for the air carriers of the two countries, in a constructive and forward-looking spirit.

Enhancing Science and Technology Cooperation

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee welcomed the upgrading of the Joint Committee on Science and Technology to the ministerial level as a foundation for common growth. They noted that the $ 10 million joint R&D fund is being actively utilized for joint
research projects, human resources exchanges, workshops, and other science and technology cooperation programs.

Both leaders pledged to enhance cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space as envisaged in the MOU on cooperation between the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI). The leaders noted that the technical
experts from both sides met in Bangalore, India, in March 2011 and identified priority areas of cooperation. The Korean side welcomed India’s participation in the RoK’s international open bidding for launching Korean satellites. The two leaders proposed that
the concerned agencies of both countries study the possible cooperation in future space activities including launching a nano-satellite developed by Korean students on an Indian launch vehicle.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the conclusion of a bilateral civil nuclear cooperation agreement during the State visit of the President of India to ROK in July 2011. Recognizing the criticality of non-polluting nuclear energy in the economic development
of countries, they agreed to discuss specific items of cooperation with the ongoing review of the safety and security aspects of operating nuclear plants. President Lee requested that the Indian Government allocate a site for Korean nuclear reactors.

Promoting Culture, Education and People-to-People Exchanges

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the successful organization of reciprocal year long cultural festivals in both countries during 2011. Prime Minister Singh and President Lee, decided that the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic
relations between ROK and India in 2013, be celebrated in a befitting manner. Both sides will consult each other in developing a suitable calendar of events. President Lee welcomed the opening of an Indian Cultural Centre in Seoul in July 2011 and conveyed
that the Korean Cultural Centre would be operational in New Delhi in the course of the year. Prime Minister Singh noted that the initiative would help the Indian people become more interested in the rich Korean culture and tradition.

The two leaders welcomed the growing educational and academic exchanges between the two countries. They agreed to promote tie-ups and exchanges between educational institutions of the two countries, with a view to increasing student exchanges in various
areas including language, information technology, and science.

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee expressed a strong desire to see greater parliamentary exchanges between the two countries, which are amongst the two most vibrant democracies in the world.

Recognizing the critical role of the media in informing and shaping public opinion in democratic nations, Prime Minister Singh and President Lee also welcomed the MOU on media exchanges, concluded in July 2011 in Seoul. It was noted that the two countries
would exchange media delegation in the second half of this year. They also agreed to facilitate institutional tie ups between media organizations of both countries to promote further exchange of content and journalists.

Furthering Cooperation in the International Arena

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee exchanged views on the global economic and financial situation, which continues to be very difficult. They reiterated the pressing need for all countries and international financial institutions to work in tandem in
order to overcome the crisis affecting each and every nation. They agreed to step up consultations including those in the G20 process to enhance transparency and cooperation in both regional and global economic structures.

The two leaders also recognized the need for comprehensive UN reforms including Security Council expansion to make the body even more representative and effective. Prime Minister Singh emphasized India’s aspirations for a greater role in the reformed UN
Security Council. Both sides commended each other’s roles and constructive contributions in promoting global peace, security and prosperity.

The two leaders exchanged views on the situation in their respective regions, as well as the Gulf, West Asia and North Africa, expressing concern at a number of flashpoints that could endanger peace and security in Asia and beyond. They underlined their
strong commitment to the peaceful settlement of issues, without resorting to force or the threat of use of force.

The two leaders shared their views on the importance of maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula including its denuclearization. Noting North Korea’s announcement made on March 16, 2012 that it plans to launch the so-called "application satellite”,
they urged that nothing should be done which increases tensions in the region and violates the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Prime Minister Singh and President Lee and expressed grave concern about the continued threat of terrorism and piracy, emanating from various quarters. The two leaders expressed the hope that the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, which
was under consideration at the UN, would be adopted soon. The two leaders pledged to enhance mutual cooperation including through information sharing.

The two leaders reiterated their common commitment to nuclear disarmament and the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. They attached importance to the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit in strengthening international
efforts to address the challenge of nuclear terrorism. The Republic of Korea welcomed India’s intention for future membership and active participation in the multilateral export control regimes with the objective of strengthening the international non-proliferation
regime.

The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation and coordination between their countries within the East Asia Summit (EAS), which they acknowledged should continue to remain an ASEAN-led, open, transparent and inclusive structure. They welcomed the inclusion
of the United States and the Russian Federation in the EAS.

The two leaders welcomed the commencement of a Trilateral India-ROK-Japan dialogue amongst think-tanks of the three countries, the first of which will be held in Delhi in 2012.

Prime Minister Singh informed President Lee of the rapid progress in the establishment of the new Nalanda University as a symbol of excellence in learning in a resurgent Asia. President Lee stated that ROK welcomed the progress in re-establishing this premier
educational institution and would examine possible ways to contribute.

The two leaders welcomed the signing of the following agreement and MOU :

Agreement on Simplification of Visa Procedures

MOU on Cooperation between KNDA (Korea National Diplomatic Academy) and FSI (Foreign Service Institute)

The two leaders welcomed regular bilateral high level visits, which have become a hallmark of the relationship and observed that the Official visit of the Prime Minister of India to the Republic of Korea would contribute immeasurably to deepening and expanding
the Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

On behalf of the Government and the people of India, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh expressed gratitude to President Mr. Lee Myung-bak and the friendly people of the Republic of Korea for the warm and gracious hospitality accorded to him and his delegation.
Prime Minister Singh extended a cordial invitation to the President of ROK to visit India at a mutually convenient time. The invitation was accepted with appreciation.

Seoul
25 March 2012

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MEA1907018353Documents signed during the Visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Seychelles

S.No.

Name of the MOU/Agreement

Signatory from the Indian Side

Signatory from the Seychelles Side

1.

MOU between Government of India and the Government of Seychelles for the supply of Coastal Surveillance Radar Systems.

Shri S.M. Krishna,External Affairs Minister

Mr. Jean-Paul Adam, Foreign Minister of Seychelles

2.

Agreement between BEL and the Government of Seychelles for the supply of Coastal Surveillance Radar Systems (CSRS)

Shri V.V. Balakrishnan, General Manager, BEL

Mr. Jean-Claude Adrienne, Acting High Commissioner of Seychelles.

3.

Agreement between HAL and the Government of Seychelles for the supply of a Dornier Aircraft.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India and the European Commission (EUROSTAT) on Statistical Co-Operation

Mr. Joao Cravinho, Head of Delegation, Delegation of the European Union to India

This agreement will facilitate greater interaction and collaboration between our experts in sharing best practices and information in the field of statistics and improve our capacities for a better informed decision-making process

India-European Union Joint Declaration on Research and Innovation Cooperation

Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences and Planning

Mr. Karel de Gucht,
European Commissioner for Trade

Both sides declare their resolve to moving up a gear in their research and innovation cooperation, fully exploiting its potential towards finding solutions to common societal challenges, and mobilising Indian and European stakeholders to define a strategic
"Indo-European Research and Innovation Partnership" by the end of 2012

New Delhi
February 10, 2012

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MEA1834318347India - EU Joint Declaration for Enhanced Cooperation on EnergyJoint Declaration for Enhanced Cooperation on Energy between the Government of India and the European Union

Recalling the India-EU Strategic Partnership and the Joint Action Plan, adopted in 2005 and reviewed in 2008, setting up the India-EU Energy Panel for dialogue and cooperation on energy issues;

Recalling the Joint Work Programme on Energy, Clean Development and Climate Change adopted at the India-EU Summit held in Marseille in 2008;

Recalling the 11th India-EU Summit held in Brussels in 2010, whereby India and the EU reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced cooperation in the energy sector;

Recalling the first Coordinating Committee meeting of the Agreement for Cooperation between Government of India and Euratom in the field of fusion energy research, held in Gandhinagar in October 2010, whereby both parties agreed a bilateral work programme
in support of ITER;

Acknowledging that India and the EU share common objectives as regards enhancing energy security, promoting energy efficiency and energy safety, and the pursuit of sustainable development through, inter alia, the development of clean and renewable energy
sources;

Recognising that business operators play a significant role in the development of innovative clean and efficient energy technologies and that mutually beneficial activity can be further expanded;

Welcoming the India-EU Energy Panel decision, taken on the occasion of its 6th meeting held in New Delhi in November 2011, to extend the dialogue to include regular exchanges on energy security matters, to enhance security of supply and coordination of
positions in international organisations and initiatives on energy and to continue deepening cooperation in the energy field, through a series of focused, result-oriented activities;

The Government of India and the European Union will work together to improve energy security, safety, sustainability, access and energy technologies and will focus their joint efforts in a number of key energy areas, on the basis of common interest and
mutual benefit, inter alia:

Joint activities, including technical meetings gathering energy experts designated by the Indian Government and the European Commission, vocational training, and participation in relevant events organised in India and the European Union, will be set up
on a regular basis throughout 2012 and onwards, with due involvement and support of both sides. Relevant institutional and government stakeholders on both sides, as well as relevant market actors, such as energy regulators, nuclear safety organisations, business
representatives, research institutes and academia, transmission system operators and distribution system operators, will be invited to contribute to these activities, as appropriate. Business to business cooperation (with a specific focus on SMEs) shall be
promoted to enhance cooperation in the energy sector through appropriate financial and technical institutions on both sides.

Support from EU funded programmes and initiatives will be explored as well as from other India and EU schemes to promote mutual cooperation. Complementarities with relevant initiatives promoted in India by the EU Member States and International Financial
Institutions and other international institutions and fora, as needed, will be sought, in the context of India’s priorities and policies, so as to ensure a comprehensive approach with maximum impact. Both sides will discuss the activities to be undertaken
under India-EU Joint Work Programme on ‘Energy, Clean Development and Climate Change’ by various institutions supported under EU funded programmes and initiatives and exchange information on a regular basis at the India-EU Joint Working Group on Environment,
the India-EU Energy Panel and the India-EU Sub-Commission on Economic Cooperation, in order to maximise impact.

Progress in the implementation of these activities will be reported to the 2012 India-EU Energy Panel meeting.

New Delhi
February 10, 2012.

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MEA1834718352Joint Statement by India and European Union on the 12th India-EU Summit

The 12th India-EU Summit was held in New Delhi on 10 February 2012. The Republic of India was represented by the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh. EU was represented by Mr. Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, and Mr. José Manuel Durão
Barroso, President of the European Commission.

The leaders expressed satisfaction at the deepening comprehensive bilateral relations. India and EU, as long-standing strategic partners, are committed to working together with a balanced and result-oriented approach, bearing in mind each sides’ respective
development priorities, based on common shared values, relating to democracy, rule of law, civil liberties, fundamental freedoms and respect for human rights.

Both sides discussed bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of mutual concern with a view to, inter alia, strengthen their multifaceted bilateral cooperation, coordinate responses to regional issues, and tackle international challenges including the
current financial crisis.

Bilateral Issues

Leaders expressed satisfaction that since the last India-EU Summit in December 2010, negotiations on the India-EU Broad based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) have intensified with substantial progress achieved across the board on different areas.
Both sides have engaged intensively to find solutions for outstanding issues which are mutually acceptable. Negotiations on an ambitious and balanced package are now close to completion which is expected to provide a new thrust to bilateral trade, investment
and economic cooperation. This is especially significant in the context of the current economic climate so as to provide a new impetus to growth. Commerce, Industry and Textile Minister, Shri Anand Sharma and European Trade Commissioner, Mr. Karel De Gucht
would monitor the progress of these negotiations for an early conclusion.

Underlining the importance of dialogue and cooperation between their respective business communities, leaders welcomed the business summit held on the margins of the summit and agreed to continue working towards an improved business climate including facilitating
the exchange of information on opportunities for further collaboration.

Leaders took note of the India-EU Ministerial Meeting of 16 January 2012 and the decision to hold Foreign Policy Consultations on an annual basis in order to strengthen political dialogue.

Leaders welcomed the holding of the India-EU Security Dialogue in New Delhi in May 2011 India and the EU and reiterated their desire to maintain and expand cooperation in the field of security.

Recalling their Joint Declaration on International Terrorism, adopted at the previous Summit in December 2010, leaders welcomed the holding of the India-EU Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism in New Delhi in January 2012. India and the EU condemned
terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed their united stance in combating threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts wherever they may take place. Noting the progress made on implementing the Joint Declaration,
leaders welcomed the identification, by their experts, of areas of future collaboration in this respect.

Both sides recognized the importance of the activities of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee [CTC] (of which India is the Chair) and concluding negotiations on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism [CCIT], at the earliest; and they agreed
to the need of ensuring that the international financial system is made secure from the threats of money laundering and financing of terror.

Leaders welcomed the discussions held in New Delhi on 16 December 2011 between India and EU at expert level aimed at enhancing cooperation on anti piracy efforts and their decision to have such exchanges on a regular basis. They noted in particular that
their experts had agreed in principle to cooperate in the escorting of WFP shipments, to enhance the regulation of privately contracted armed security guards in the context of the International Maritime Organisation, and to share piracy related information
in a systematic manner with the aim of, inter alia, improving the situation of hostages and tackling the illegal financial flows linked to piracy off the coast of Somalia.

Leaders also expressed satisfaction with bilateral consultations on Cyber security and Cybercrime as a result of which some concrete areas for mutual cooperation were identified. They called for continuation of these consultations stressing the importance
of further dialogue.

Considering the high level of importance that both sides attach to bilateral cooperation in the sphere of energy, the leaders welcomed their Joint Declaration on Enhanced Cooperation in Energy. They looked forward to an expeditious finalisation of the Joint
Report on the Results of the India-EU Joint Work Programme on Energy, Clean Development and Climate Change and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in these areas.

India and EU welcomed the discussion held in November 2011 on ICT and recognised the importance of further dialogue on cooperation in this sector.

Leaders reiterated their respective positions on the inclusion of aviation in the EU Emissions Trading System and noted the strong divergence of views. Both sides agreed on the need to urgently resolve the issue.

Recognising the mutually beneficial cooperation on science and technology and the potential of strengthening it, the leaders welcomed the signing of the Joint Declaration on Research and Innovation Cooperation with the aim of enhancing the scale, scope
and impact of cooperation and building an "Indo-European research and innovation partnership", with a focus on common societal challenges and enhanced synergies between India, the EU and its Member States.

Leaders acknowledged active cooperation pursued by Space Agencies and Industries of both sides in various fields of space science, technology and applications. Both leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress in finalizing ISRO-ESA Agreement for cooperation
on Earth Observation and Climate Change. They reaffirmed their commitment to finalization of the Agreement on Satellite Navigation and related Technical Agreement on the use of the frequency spectrum.

Leaders called for progress and finalisation of an agreement between India and the European Atomic Energy Community for R & D cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

India and EU reiterated the importance they attach to encouraging people-to-people contacts and human exchanges and reaffirmed their determination to co-operate closely in the field of migration within the framework of the India-EU Joint Statement of 10
December 2010 and in the context of the India-EU High Level Dialogue on Migration.

Leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in the field of vocational training and noted the potential for further enhancing cooperation in this area.20. India and EU called for appropriate steps to enable the entry into force of the Horizontal Civil Aviation
Agreement.

EU took note of the difficulties being faced by some Sikh passengers while travelling through European airports, due to the turbans they wear. Leaders acknowledged the need for effective aviation security measures and discussed the ongoing development of
new technologies and methods of addressing security taking into account the dignity of the individuals involved.

Leaders welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Statistics.

Regional Issues

Leaders reiterated their commitment to assisting Afghanistan to become a stable, democratic nation free of terrorism and extremism. As NATO/ISAF prepares to complete the ongoing transition and Afghan authorities assume full security responsibility for the
country by the end of 2014, leaders welcomed the long-term commitment of the international community to Afghanistan in the Transformation Decade from 2015 to 2024 reiterated in the recent conference in Bonn. Both sides acknowledged that Afghanistan needs time,
development assistance, preferential access to world markets, foreign investment and a clear end-state and strategy to attain lasting peace and stability. Both sides underlined the need for more effective regional cooperation for the stabilisation of Afghanistan,
including by preventing terrorists from finding refuge across Afghanistan's borders. Leaders welcomed the Istanbul process on regional security and cooperation for a secure and stable Afghanistan.

Leaders stressed that a stable and democratic Pakistan is in the interest of the entire region. They agreed that terrorism and violent extremism represent serious threats to international peace and security and on the importance of Pakistan's cooperation
with countries in the region to eliminate terrorism and dismantle terrorist networks.

The leaders recalled their view that terrorism cannot be justified on any grounds and stressed that perpetrators of the November 2008 Mumbai attacks should be brought to justice expeditiously.

Leaders acknowledged the significant progress in the reform process in Myanmar. They encouraged the process to continue and urged the international community to step up its engagement with Myanmar.

India and EU exchanged views on regional integration. They recognized that closer cooperation among the countries of South Asia is crucial for the development of that region, and in this context, agreed to continue consultation and cooperation between SAARC
and the EU.

Leaders discussed events in the Arab world, voicing support for the democratic aspirations of the populations aimed at deepening democratic governance. They also discussed the Middle East Peace Process and called on the parties to engage actively in accordance
with relevant UNSC resolutions and along the lines of the Arab Peace Plan and the Quartet Statement adopted in New York on 23 September 2011. Leaders expressed great concern about the situation in Syria and reiterated their support for the efforts by UNSC
and the League of Arab States.

Global issues

Leaders exchanged views on the state of their respective economies and expressed their concern on the international economic situation. In this context, both sides reaffirmed their commitment, as had been agreed to at the Cannes Summit held in November
2011, to ensure that the IMF continues to have sufficient resources to play its systemic role to the benefit of its whole membership. Leaders also recognized the need to ensure effective reform of financial and commodity markets as agreed at the Cannes Summit
and for an appropriate transition towards an international monetary system which better reflects the increased weight of emerging market economies.

Leaders underlined the importance of international trade to the recovery of the international economy and reaffirmed their commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and to combating protectionism.

Leaders looked forward to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (RIO+20) for a renewed political commitment to Sustainable Development based on the Rio Principles to advance progress in the implementation of the Rio Declaration on Environment and
Development, Agenda 21, the Programme for the further Implementation of Agenda 21, the Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development and the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation. They welcomed the hosting of the Conference by Brazil on 20-22 June 2012
in Rio de Janeiro and pledged to extend all support to make it a success. Leaders agreed that green economy should be seen as a means to achieving the overriding priorities of sustainable development and poverty eradication and emphasized that Sustainable
Development should be approached through a balanced integration of economic, social and environmental pillars.

Leaders reaffirmed that poverty eradication should remain the central focus of the global development agenda, called for a redoubling of efforts to push for maximum achievement of MDGs by 2015 and reaffirmed that inclusive and equitable global growth is
fundamental in ensuring the attainment of the MDGs, particularly poverty reduction, and this would require continued focus on these goals even beyond 2015.

Leaders reaffirmed the importance of the implementation of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and of strengthening global efforts towards preventing biopiracy and preserving genetic resources and traditional knowledge associated with their use.
They committed their full support and pledged to cooperate closely for the success of the 11th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD-COP11) to be held in Hyderabad, India in 2012. In this connection India and the EU agreed to
actively work towards the early entry into force of the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilisation (ABS).

Leaders discussed the outcome of the Climate Change Conference held in Durban, South Africa in December 2011, and called for continued dialogue between both sides with a view to enhancing cooperation on bilateral and international issues relating to Climate
Change in accordance with the objectives, principles and provisions of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

India and EU reaffirmed their commitment to global and non-discriminatory disarmament and to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. They pledged closer cooperation aimed at providing a robust nuclear non-proliferation
regime and supported a prompt commencement of negotiations on Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty in the Conference on Disarmament.

The parties reaffirmed their commitment to diplomacy to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and expressed the need for Iran to take constructive and immediate steps to meet its obligations to the IAEA and the UN Security Council. Parties welcomed efforts
by the EU High Representative, on behalf of the E3+3, aimed at engaging Iran into meaningful talks.

New Delhi
10 February 2012

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MEA1835218356MOU between EUROSTAT and Central Statistics Office on Statistical Co-operation16-02-2012 16:53:53MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/18356/MOU+between+EUROSTAT+and+Central+Statistics+Office+on+Statistical+Cooperation
MEA1835618358India - EU Joint Declaration on Research and Innovation Cooperation16-02-2012 16:56:05MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/18358/India++EU+Joint+Declaration+on+Research+and+Innovation+Cooperation
MEA1835818341Joint Statement on the occasion of the State visit of the Prime Minister of Mauritius

Dr. The Hon Navinchandra Ramgoolam, GCSK, FRCP, Prime Minister of the Republic of Mauritius paid a State Visit to India from February 6-11, 2012 at the invitation of the Honourable Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh.

The Prime Minister of Mauritius was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Veena Ramgoolam, Dr. The Hon Arvin Boolell, GOSK, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Hon Cader Sayed-Hossen, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Consumer
Protection and high-level officials. An important delegation comprising the main economic sectors from Mauritius also accompanied the Prime Minister.

After a ceremonial welcome in New Delhi, the Prime Minister of Mauritius visited Rajghat to pay homage to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi. During the State Visit, the Prime Minister of Mauritius called on the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil
and the Vice President of India, Shri M. Hamid Ansari.

The Prime Minister of Mauritius met the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, and held discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest and relevance. Official talks between India and Mauritius were held on February
7, 2012 in an extremely warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere reflective of the special and unique relationship between the two countries. The Prime Minister of India hosted a banquet in honour of the Prime Minister of Mauritius and the accompanying delegation.

The Prime Minister of Mauritius received Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Finance and Shri Jaipal Reddy, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Smt. Preneet Kaur, Minister of State for External Affairs. He called on the UPA Chairperson, Smt. Sonia
Gandhi.

The two leaders recalled the historical and cultural ties based on the foundations of kinship and shared heritage and common values between the two countries. They reiterated an abiding faith in and commitment to democracy, development and peace.

They shared the confidence that cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels will enable the two countries to realise their developmental aspirations, and contribute to peace, prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean Region.

The two sides signed the following documents during the visit:(i) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Science and Technology; (ii) Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Youth and Sports; (iii) MOU for Cooperation between Ministry of Textiles,
Government of India and Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Consumer Protection, Government of Mauritius; (iv) Education Exchange Programme 2012-2016 and (v) Memorandum of Understanding between the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre Trust Fund and the National Council
of Science Museums of India.

Both sides noted with satisfaction the progress achieved in the implementation of projects under the economic package offered by the Government of India to Mauritius in the past. One Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv was gifted to Mauritius in November 2009
as part of this package. The Coastal Surveillance Radar System was installed and commissioned in April 2011. The construction of the Offshore Patrol Vessel is underway.

Government of India announced an offer of an economic package, including a Line of Credit of US$ 250 million and a grant of US$ 20 million. The Prime Minister of Mauritius thanked the Prime Minister of India for this generous financial package.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation to enhance security in the Indian Ocean region through jointly agreed programmes of EEZ surveillance, exchange of information, capacity building and the development of an effective legal framework against
piracy.

The two leaders emphasized the need to intensify cooperation to tackle the challenges faced by Indian Ocean Rim countries, including strengthening the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC). Mauritius pledged its full support to
IOR-ARC as India assumed the Chair of IOR-ARC.

The two leaders reviewed the progress achieved so far in cooperation in hydrography between India and Mauritius. Both sides agreed that 6 years of bilateral cooperation in hydrography had led to the successful preparation of new navigational charts of Mauritian
waters.

The two leaders reviewed the various efforts to promote bilateral trade and investment ties and the development of infrastructure in a manner that contributes to sustainable development in both countries. The two leaders noted the growth of bilateral trade
between India and Mauritius which has increased from US$207 million in 2005-06 to US$818 million in the year 2010-11, a growth of 295% in the last 5 years. During Financial Year 2010-11, India's exports to Mauritius were US$801 million and imports from Mauritius
were US$17 million. It was agreed that the Joint Commission Meeting would be held at an early date where all issues relating to closer economic cooperation would be addressed.

Both sides noted with satisfaction, the growing economic and commercial ties between India and Mauritius. The two Prime Ministers agreed on the need to foster greater business linkages in all areas where opportunities exist whether at bilateral or regional
level.

Both sides noted that the Meeting of the Joint Working Group on DTAC was held from December 21-23, 2011 in a friendly, constructive and positive atmosphere. Both sides agreed to continue discussions at an early date with a view to reaching a mutually agreeable
outcome.

Mauritius welcomed the initiative taken by India to hold the India Africa Forum Summits on a regular basis. Both sides noted with satisfaction that the process had enhanced India's engagement with Africa and given it a modern and functional dimension. Mauritius
expressed its appreciation for the contribution by India for infrastructure development and capacity building in Africa. A large amount of credit lines were providing an important basis for increased development and enhanced business interaction between India
and Africa. The human resource development and capacity building initiatives were providing opportunities for training African youth to participate in their own development process. They expressed their satisfaction that the Pan African e-Network Project had
been successfully implemented in Mauritius and that, under the IAFS initiatives, the Hybrid Planetarium at the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre would be undertaken.

Both leaders reiterated the importance of an effective multilateral system, centered around a strong United Nations, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. In this context, they also recognized the need to pursue reform of the main UN bodies, including
the revitalization of the UN General Assembly and expansion of the UN Security Council in both categories of membership. The Prime Minister of Mauritius reiterated his country's [consistent support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded
UN Security Council.

The two leaders underscored the need for strengthening and reform of multilateral financial institutions and enhancing the voice and participation of developing countries, including SIDS, in international economic decision-making.

The two leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In furtherance of the shared security interests of both countries which are interlinked in the region, it was agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation
on issues of common concern, including piracy, terrorism, organised crime and drugs. It was also agreed to intensify cooperation in the areas of training and capacity building of the Mauritian Police Force. The Prime Minister of Mauritius expressed interest
in the purchase of equipment to strengthen the capability of Mauritius Police Force. The Prime Minister of India assured that this equipment could be supplied expeditiously to Mauritius under a mutually agreed time frame. Both the Prime Minister of India and
the Prime Minister of Mauritius also agreed on the necessity of ensuring adequate surveillance of the vast EEZ of Mauritius through mutually agreed programmes.

Both sides agreed that climate change was one of the most important global challenges. They reaffirmed the provisions and principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), in particular that of equity and common but differentiated
responsibilities and respective capabilities. They reiterated that developed countries should take the lead in undertaking ambitious mitigation efforts and providing financial and technological support to developing countries. Both Parties shall collaborate
on projects of mutual interest to preserve common eco-systems. They shall also collaborate to address vulnerability of Mauritius as a Small Island Developing State (SID) to Climate Change and strengthen coastal research.

India reiterated its consistent support to Mauritius for the restoration of Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. The Prime Minister of Mauritius thanked India for its long-standing and unwavering stand in this regard.

Both leaders welcomed the fact that the business delegation, led by the Hon. Prime Minister of Mauritius, had meaningful interactions with the business communities of India in New Delhi and Mumbai.

The Prime Minister of Mauritius thanked the Prime Minister of India for the warmth, cordiality and gracious hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation during their stay in India.

Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam extended an invitation to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to pay a visit to Mauritius. The invitation was accepted and it was agreed that the dates of the visit would be finalized through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
February 7, 2012

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MEA1834118354Agreements signed during the State visit of Prime Minister of Mauritius16-02-2012 16:50:40MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/18354/Agreements+signed+during+the+State+visit+of+Prime+Minister+of+Mauritius
MEA1835418264Fifth meeting of the India-Pakistan committee on Prisoners held in IndiaMembers of the India-Pakistan Judicial Committee on Prisoners visited Indian Jails in Delhi, Jaipur and Amritsar from 23-27 January 2012. The members of the Committee, Justice (Retd.) Mr A.S Gill and Justice (Retd) Mr. M.A Khan from the Indian side and Justice
(Retd.) Mr. Nasir Aslam Zahid and Justice (Retd.) Mian Muhammad Ajmal from Pakistan side visited the Jails.

On the conclusion of the visit, the Committee made following recommendations:

a) The "Consular Access Agreement” of May 2008 signed between two government must be implemented fully. Consular access must be provided within three months of the arrest and repatriation must take place within one month of confirmation of national status and
completion of sentences;

b) Consular access must be provided at the immediately to all those prisoners who have not been given consular access so far and the process of nationality confirmation should start immediately after consular access is provided;

c) A mechanism should be developed for compassionate and humanitarian consideration to be given to women, juvenile, mentally challenged, old aged and all those prisoners suffering from serious illness/permanent physical disability;

d) It was also recommended that serious/terminally and mentally challenged prisoners must be kept in hospitals irrespective of confirmation of their national status and offence;

e) Prisoners involved in minor offences like violation of Foreigners' Act, visa violation and inadvertent border crossing deserve compassion from both the sides;

f) The Committee noted that the respective courts must be requested for expeditious trial of all "under trial” prisoners. Provision of legal aid/attorneys to prisoners must be ensured at all stages of their cases;

g) The Committee also endorsed the recommendations of the Home/Interior Secretary level talks held on 28-29 March 2011 at New Delhi to task the Pakistani Maritime Security Agency and Coast Guard of India to work on setting up a mechanism for release of inadvertent
crossers (fishermen) and their boats, on the same lines as the inadvertent crossers on land; It was recommended that the fishermen should be repatriated by sea lanes along with their boats;

h) It was suggested that the next visit of the Committee to Pakistani jails be arranged during the second half of April 2012;

i) The Committee will review the action taken report on the earlier recommendations when the Committee meets next in Pakistan”

Justice (Retd.) A.S. Gill Justice (Retd.) Nasir Aslam Zahid

Justice (Retd.) M.A. Khan Justice (Retd.) Mian Muhammad Ajmal

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MEA1826418265Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of Thailand09-02-2012 12:55:27MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/18265/Agreements+signed+during+the+visit+of+Prime+Minister+of+Thailand
MEA1826518267Joint Statement by India and Thailand on the State Visit of Prime Minister of Thailand Yingluck Shinawatra to India

H.E. Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand, paid a State visit to India from January 24-26, 2012 as the Chief Guest for India's Republic Day celebrations. On her first visit to India, at the invitation of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh,
she was accompanied by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Commerce, Industry and Information & Communication Technology; senior government officials, and a business delegation.

During the visit, PM Shinawatra called on Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of India, and Shri Hamid Ansari, the Vice-President of India. She also held talks with Dr. Manmohan Singh, who hosted a banquet in her honour. Shri S.M. Krishna, External
Affairs Minister called on the Thai PM. PM Shinawatra also attended a business luncheon hosted by (CII/FICCI/ASSOCHAM) chambers of commerce.

The two Prime Ministers held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues, and reviewed the outcome of the 6th Joint Commission Meeting held in New Delhi on December 27, 2011 co-chaired by the Minister of External Affairs of India
and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.

Both sides noted that the visit coincides with the 65th anniversary of establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, as well as 20 years of India's enhanced engagement with ASEAN. They noted with satisfaction that India and Thailand have, over the past
decades, developed a strong and mutually beneficial cooperation at both bilateral and regional levels, and have played an important role in fostering regional frameworks which have contributed to peace, social and economic development, and infrastructural
linkages between India and Southeast Asia. Given the progress in the relationship, both sides expressed the desire to work together towards elevating the bilateral relations to strategic partnership for mutual benefit.

The Prime Minister of India once again conveyed deep condolences to the Thai Prime Minister on loses suffered during the recent devastating floods in Thailand, and offered to support reconstruction and recovery effort as required. The Thai Prime Minister
expressed deep appreciation for the financial assistance provided by India. Both sides agreed to explore the possibility of cooperation in water management and flood prevention.

ECONOMIC RELATIONS

Both sides noted that South East Asia has grown significantly in terms of economic influence, and its dynamism continues to play an important role in global economic growth. Both leaders noted that Thailand and India have led efforts to integrate economies
of the region.

To strengthen economic links between the two countries, both sides reaffirmed their resolve to conclude the bilateral Comprehensive Agreement on Trade in Goods, Services, and Investments by mid-2012, to further enhance economic links and between the two
countries. The 2nd Protocol signed during the visit to amend the Framework Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area would provide further boost to bilateral trade in immediate terms.

To further create a supportive atmosphere for the bilateral and regional comprehensive economic cooperation, the two leaders also agreed that ASEAN and India should conclude their regional Trade in Services and Investment Agreements by 2012.

The Prime Minister of India welcomed Thai investments into India into sectors such as infrastructure development including ports and highways, computer hardware, automobile components and parts, food processing and power generation, as well as tourism and
hospitality facilities in the Buddhist circuit. The Thai Prime Minister invited Indian investments to Thailand in information technology, manufacturing, electronics and automotive industry. Both sides looked forward to the establishment of a forum comprising
senior representatives of business enterprises of both countries to promote expansion of bilateral business ties.

The two sides agreed to explore possibilities of collaboration between their respective oil and gas companies in Exploration and Production (E&P) opportunities in Thailand and India, as well as in third countries.

SECURITY AND DEFENCE

Both sides noted that the increasing menace of terrorists, criminals, arms and drug traffickers trying to use this region for their nefarious activities provided an added urgency to strengthen cooperation in security and intelligence exchange. The 6th meeting
of the Joint Working Group on Security Cooperation held in New Delhi on May 25-26, 2011 provided an opportunity to discuss these challenges in a comprehensive manner. It was agreed that a five-year Joint Working Programme on specific elements of cooperation
would be finalized urgently.

The two leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stressed that there could be no justification whatsoever for any act of terrorism. Recognizing the common threats to national security from transnational crimes, including
international terrorism, the two Prime Ministers resolved to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, including in restricting transnational movement and unauthorized stay of known terrorists in each other's countries. The two leaders
resolved to commit their countries to improve sharing of intelligence, the development of more effective counter-terrorism policies, enhance liaison between law enforcement agencies, provide assistance in the areas of border and immigration control to stem
the flow of terrorist related material, money and people and specific measures against transnational crimes, through the already existing mechanisms between Thailand and India.

Such cooperation will also complement regional efforts as declared in the ASEAN-India Joint Declaration for Cooperation in Combating international Terrorism.

The two sides shared the view that, Thailand and India being maritime neighbours, defence cooperation would be mutually beneficial in addressing shared challenges and concerns. In this regard, the two sides expressed satisfaction that the inaugural meeting
of the bilateral Defence Dialogue held in New Delhi on December 23, 2011, had enabled a comprehensive review of various elements of defence cooperation and its future course. The MoU on Defence Cooperation signed during the visit would help both sides to further
streamline and facilitate this process on matters of mutual concern. The two sides noted the ongoing cooperation between both Navies in the conduct of coordinated patrols and agreed that such measures of cooperation should continue.

The two sides will also expedite the ongoing negotiations on Bilateral Extradition Treaty and the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty on Civil and Commercial Matters.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Both sides agreed on the need for concerted collaboration in domains of creativity, innovation and research and development, in order to transform their economies into knowledge based ones. In this regard, enhanced cooperation on science and technology,
information and communications technology, agricultural science, natural resource management, biotechnology, and marine & space sciences should be further pursued through existing mechanisms and future arrangements to be mutually agreed upon.

CULTURE, EDUCATION, AND PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

The two leaders agreed to deepen cultural and historical ties between the two countries by promoting diverse cultural exchanges to build a lasting understanding between the peoples of the two countries.

In order to accelerate people-to-people contact in cultural and other fields benefiting both societies, both sides agreed to work together towards setting up an "India-Thailand Foundation”. Both sides also agreed to consider possibilities of audio-visual
co-production.

The two sides welcomed the formation of the India-Thailand Parliamentary Friendship Group in the Indian Parliament that would facilitate parliamentary exchanges with its counterpart group in Thailand's National Assembly and agreed to intensify the exchange
of parliamentary delegations between the two countries.

Recognizing that education is another important area of cooperation, the two leaders welcomed the progress made towards the revival of the Nalanda University, to be a leading regional academic institution as endorsed during the East Asia Summit. The Prime
Minister of India thanked the Prime Minister of Thailand for pledging USD 100,000 to the University, with further contributions to be made by Thai private sector.

Both sides expressed satisfaction at the greater flow of tourists and visitors between the two countries. To address issues related to travel, visa facilitation, employment, and safety of tourists, both leaders welcomed the setting up of an ad hoc Joint
Working Group on all visa and consular matters which will meet at regular intervals.

The Indian side welcomed Thailand's participation as Partner Country in the Surajkund Crafts Mela 2012 at Faridabad between 1 - 15 February 2012 by sending a Thai cultural and crafts demonstration troupe.

REGIONAL COOPERATION AND CONNECTIVITY

Both sides expressed their desire to further enhance their valued partnership and cooperation in the context of India - ASEAN relations. Both Prime Ministers supported the formation of the ASEAN Community by 2015 as an important step towards greater integration
and prosperity in Southeast Asia. The Thai Prime Minister supported India's engagement with ASEAN, and viewed that India's role will be important for ASEAN's continued dynamism, security, and prosperity beyond 2015.

In this connection, the two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their full support for the work of ASEAN-India Eminent Persons Group to take stock and chart the future direction of the Dialogue relations so as to further realize the full potential of ASEAN-India
partnership in the next decade.

Both leaders underlined the importance of the East Asia Summit as a platform for greater integration and cooperation, and, in the long term, achieving an East Asia Community of peace prosperity, and security.

Both leaders looked forward to the India - ASEAN Commemorative Summit in December 2012 hosted by India. In the run up to the Commemorative Summit, India will host a number of events such as the India-ASEAN Car Rally, a sailing ship expedition along the
monsoon trade winds route, the 4th edition of Delhi Dialogue, the ASEAN-India Business Fair, Ministerial level meetings and cultural activities throughout the year. Thailand will support these initiatives and events through its active participation.

The two leaders reaffirmed the importance that both countries attached to the BIMSTEC as a link between South and South-East Asia. The two sides also agreed to synergize their development projects and capacity building in lower Mekong region through the
Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) initiative which could take the lead in reinvigorating this grouping.

Both leaders shared the view that the close cooperation on enhancing connectivity was a common theme in existing regional cooperation platforms, and agreed to focus on developing road and shipping infrastructure which will establish in the future, an economic
corridor linking India with Thailand and Southeast Asia. To this end, the two sides announced setting up of a joint working group on infrastructure and connectivity to help expedite various development initiatives in these fields in both countries as well
as in third countries. They agreed that the work of the Group could also aid regional connectivity efforts such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.

MULTILATERAL COOPERATION

The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the United Nations and other international fora on matters of mutual interest. The two leaders reiterated strong support for the ongoing reform of the United Nations and its principal organs with a view to
making the United Nations more democratic, transparent and efficient so that it can deal more effectively with the myriad challenges of the contemporary world. They emphasized the importance of an early reform of the United Nations Security Council so that
it reflects the contemporary realities and functions in a more accountable, representative and effective manner.

The Thai side acknowledged India's credentials for permanent membership of the UN Security Council, and commended India's active role and continued constructive contributions in the field of global security.

The following agreements were signed during the visit:

Treaty on Transfer of Sentenced Persons

Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation

The 2nd Protocol to amend the Framework Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area between Thailand and India

Programme of Cooperation in Science & Technology

Cultural Exchange Programme for 2012-14

MoU between Chulalongkorn University and ICCR for setting up a Chair at the India Studies Centre of the University.

The Prime Minister of Thailand expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and to the people of India for the warm welcome and hospitality that had been extended to her and to the members of her delegation on her State visit. She extended an
invitation to Prime Minister of India to visit Thailand, which he gladly accepted.

New Delhi
January 25, 2012

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MEA1826717963India-China Agreement on the Establishment of a Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border AffairsAgreement between
The Government of the Republic of India
and
The Government of the People's Republic of China
on the
Establishment of a Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs

The Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the "two sides");

Firmly believing that respecting and abiding by the Line of Actual Control pending a resolution of the Boundary Question between the two countries as well as maintaining and strengthening peace and tranquility in the India-China border areas is very significant
for enhancing mutual trust and security between the two countries, for resolving the Boundary Question at an early date and for building the India-China Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity;

Desiring to materialize the spirit of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of China on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility Along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas
signed on 7th September 1993, the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of China on Confidence Building Measures in the Military Field Along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China Border
Areas signed on 29th November 1996 and the Protocol between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of China on Modalities for the Implementation of Confidence Building Measures in the Military Field Along the Line
of Actual Control in the India-China Border Areas signed on 11th April 2005;

Aiming for timely communication of information on the border situation, for appropriately handling border incidents, for earnestly undertaking other cooperation activities in the India-China border areas, have agreed as follows:

Article I

The two sides agree to establish a Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (hereinafter referred to as "the Working Mechanism") to deal with important border affairs related to maintaining peace and tranquility in the
India-China border areas.

Article II

The Working Mechanism will be headed by a Joint Secretary level official from the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and a Director General level official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China and will be
composed of diplomatic and military officials of the two sides.

Article III

The Working Mechanism will study ways and means to conduct and strengthen exchanges and cooperation between military personnel and establishments of the two sides in the border areas.

Article IV

The Working Mechanism will explore the possibility of cooperation in the border areas that are agreed upon by the two sides.

Article V

The Working Mechanism will undertake other tasks that are mutually agreed upon by the two sides but will not discuss resolution of the Boundary Question or affect the Special Representatives Mechanism.

Article VI

The Working Mechanism will address issues and situations that may arise in the border areas that affect the maintenance of peace and tranquillity and will work actively towards maintaining the friendly atmosphere between the two countries.

Article VII

The Working Mechanism will hold consultations once or twice every year alternately in India and China. Emergency consultations, if required, may be convened after mutual agreement.

Article VIII

This Agreement shall come into force on the date of its signature. It may be revised, amended, or terminated with the consent of the two sides. Any revision or amendment, mutually agreed by the two sides, shall form an integral part of this Agreement.

Signed in duplicate in Hindi, Chinese and English languages at New Delhi, on 17th January 2012, all three versions being equally authentic. In case of divergence the English text shall prevail.

The 4th meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on Fisheries was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 13-14 January 2012. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Ms. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of Sri Lanka
and the Indian delegation by Mr. Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of India. Both sides reviewed the developments since the last meeting of the Joint Working Group which was held on 28-29 March 2011 in New Delhi, India.

The two sides noted that the Joint Working Group process on fisheries had a salutary effect. It was acknowledged that the Joint Statement on Fishing Arrangements of 26th October 2008 had since led to a decrease in violent incidents. Both sides reiterated
the highest priority accorded by their respective Governments to the well being, safety and security of fishermen from the two countries. Both countries agreed that the use of force could not be justified under any circumstances, and reiterated in this regard
the importance of extending humane treatment to all fishermen. Acknowledging that fisheries involved the socio-economic and livelihood dimensions of the fishermen living in coastal areas in India and Sri Lanka, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation that
would allow both countries to pursue their fishing activity in a safe, secure and sustainable manner, including discouraging fishermen from using destructive fishing methods. They also discussed measures for the expeditious release of bonafide fishermen from
both countries. The need to respect the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) was stressed by the Sri Lankan side.

Both sides noted the importance of an ongoing engagement between fishermen and fishermen's associations in India and Sri Lanka. They agreed to encourage a continued dialogue process between the fishermen's communities of the two countries through regular
meetings. In this context, it was agreed that a delegation of fishermen's representatives from Sri Lanka would visit India at the earliest in 2012.

Both sides exchanged views on various measures to manage the fishery resources in their respective waters. Emphasizing the need for conservation of marine resources and protection of marine ecology, they agreed to the joint development of fisheries and
marine resources in the Palk Bay area and the Gulf of Mannar. The two sides agreed to develop programmes for bilateral exchanges in aquaculture and fishing related activities, including training in fisheries management, genetic improvement of cultured species,
fishing technology, exchange of scientists, etc.

The two sides held discussions on a Memorandum of Understanding on Development and Cooperation in the field of Fisheries and agreed to work towards concluding the same at an early date.

The Indian delegation thanked the Government of Sri Lanka for its assistance in rescuing Indian fishermen stranded due to cyclonic weather conditions in the Palk Straits area in recent weeks, enabling their speedy repatriation and facilitating the visit
of a team from India to salvage the grounded boats. The Indian delegation thanked the Sri Lankan authorities for continuing to facilitate the visit of Indian fishermen and pilgrims to Kachchativu for the festival of St. Anthony.

It was agreed that meetings of the Joint Working Group would be held on a regular basis, at least once in six months. The next meeting would be held in New Delhi at mutually convenient dates.

Colombo
January 15, 2012

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MEA1796617973Joint Statement by India and Mali on the occasion of the visit of the President of Mali

H.E. Mr. President of the Republic of Mali Amadou Toumani TOURE paid a State visit to India on January 11-12, 2012. The President was accompanied by First Lady Madame Toure Lobbo Traore and a high-level Ministerial and Business delegation. The Ministerial
delegation included Their Excellencies, Dr. Bocary Tereta, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries; Mr. Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; Mr. Aghatham AG Alhassane, Minister of Agriculture; Mr. Habib Ouane, Minister
of Power and Water; Mr. Modibo Ibrahim Toure; Minister of Post and New Technologies; Mr. Sambou Wague, Minister in Charge of Budget.

The President was accorded an official ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan in the capital New Delhi on January 11, 2012. The President laid a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. During the visit, President Toure met with the President
of India Smt. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil who hosted a Banquet in his honour. He held talks with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Shri E. Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs called on the President.

President Toure met leaders of Indian business and industry in New Delhi.

President Toure appreciated the achievements made by the State, the Government and people of India in all fields in the course of national development which has increasingly enhanced the role and standing of India in the region and the world.

The leaders of the two countries exchanged views in an atmosphere of warmth, cordiality and mutual trust on all aspects of bilateral cooperation as well as on the regional and international issues of mutual interest. They welcomed the development of the
friendship and cooperation between India and Mali.

The leaders expressed satisfaction at the intensification of diplomatic contacts between the two countries following the opening of resident Embassies in New Delhi and Bamako in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

Both sides agreed to further enhance high-level visits and meetings between the two countries. The leaders noted that there still remained considerable potential for cooperation and agreed to strongly enhance the partnership between the two countries in
all areas of mutual interest.

Both sides called for an early convening of the first meeting of the Joint Ministerial Commission following the signing of the Agreement on Political, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation between India and Mali in October 2009.

The leaders agreed to further deepen the partnership, by adding more concrete programmes and projects and broadening it to new areas for cooperation. Both sides agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in the areas of economy, trade and investment,
finance, human resource development, culture, agriculture, fisheries, etc., while striving to expand cooperation into other potential areas such as mining, hydrocarbons, agriculture, food processing, ICT, science and technology, public health. Both sides agreed
to find ways and means of enhancing and further expanding the bilateral trade and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation. India noted with appreciation Mali’s offer for Indian participation in their mining industry, agriculture, food processing, dairy and
poultry farming, cotton cultivation, pharmaceutical industry, leather industry, automobile and two-wheeler segment and other commercial activities and expressed its willingness to collaborate with Mali in these areas.

Both sides noted with satisfaction that the two-way trade had increased steadily in the recent years. President Toure affirmed that Mali would create favourable conditions for Indian enterprises to invest in the country. Both sides agreed to step up trade
and investment linkages, inter-alia by encouraging cooperation.

The Malian side welcomed the enhanced training slots provided by India under ITEC for training and capacity building of Malian defence forces.

During the visit, the following Agreements were concluded: an Agreement for grant of a Government of India Line of Credit of US $ 100 million for a Power Transmission Project connecting Bamako and Sikasso via Bougouni in Mali and MoU on Co-operation in
the Field of Geology and Mineral Resources.

President Toure highly appreciated the support and assistance of the Government and people of India rendered to Mali’s development process over the past years and warmly welcomed the announcement by the Prime Minister of India to continue to assist Mali
in its socio- economic development.

The leaders affirmed their desire and determination to work together for peace and stability in the region and the world, and agreed to further strengthen cooperation at regional and international fora, especially the ECOWAS-India as well as in AU, WTO,
WIPO, UN and the Non-aligned Movement.

The Malian side underlined the pioneering role played by India in consistently extending support and cooperation to African countries within the framework of South-South Cooperation. This has acquired an enhanced and significant role following the successful
organisation of India- Africa Forum Summit in 2008 and the Africa-India Forum Summit in 2011 leading to the strengthening of Africa–India relationship.

Both sides also agreed to closely cooperate to promote dialogue and cooperation in Africa with the aim of promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in the continent.

The Indian side thanked Mali for its support to India’s candidature for permanent membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council.

On the situation in the Middle East, the two sides condemned any forms of violence and urged the protagonists to resume dialogue and reiterated their support for the "Road Map” of the Quartet.

The two sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and resolved to increase cooperation in the common efforts of the international community in preventing this scourge in a comprehensive manner. Both sides agreed to closely cooperate
for an early finalisation of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, for which India had presented a draft at the United Nations in 1996.

The Indian side appreciated the regional peace-keeping efforts of Mali in Africa and reiterated its offer for providing training facilities to Mali to augment its peace-keeping capabilities. India appreciated the Conference on Peace, Security and Development
in the Sahelo Saharian region organised by the Government of Mali in 2010, in order to address issues on cross-border crimes and terrorism affecting the region.

President Amadou Toumani Toure expressed his gratitude to the State, Government and friendly people of India for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to the President and the Malian delegation during their State Visit to the Republic of India. He
invited Her Excellency the President and His Excellency the Prime of India to pay State Visits to Mali. The invitations were accepted.

New Delhi
11th January, 2012

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MEA1797317976List of agreements signed during the visit of President of Mali to IndiaList of agreements signed during the visit of President of Mali to India

S. No.

Name of the MOU/
Agreement/Treaty

Malian signatory

Indian ignatory

1

MoU on Co-operation in the Field of
Geology and Mineral Resources
between the Ministry of Mines of the
Government of India and Ministry of Mines of the
Government of the Republic of Mali

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MEA1797617981Joint Statement by India and Trinidad and Tobago on the State Visit of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago to India

The Honorable Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago paid a State Visit to India from January 5-14, 2012 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh. Prime Minister Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar
was accompanied by her spouse Dr. Gregory Bissessar and a high-level Ministerial and Business delegation.

Prime Minister Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar was accorded a ceremonial reception in New Delhi on January 6, 2012. She paid homage to the Father of the Indian Nation Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. She called on the President of India Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil
and the Vice-President of India Shri Mohammad Hamid Ansari. The Prime Ministers of India and Trinidad and Tobago held talks and the Indian Prime Minister hosted a Banquet in honor of the visiting dignitary. Minister of External Affairs of India Shri S.M. Krishna
called on the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. Prime Minister Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her delegation will also visit Jaipur, Agra, Jodhpur, Kolkata, Buxar and Mumbai.

The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago will be the Chief Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Jaipur from January 7-9, 2012. The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago is the first woman of Indian origin to become a Head of Government in the wider
Diaspora which is a source of inspiration to the Diaspora. Prime Minister Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar will be conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in recognition of her contribution to the cause of the Diaspora in the development of relations between
India and Trinidad and Tobago.

Prime Minister Ms. Kamla Persad-Bissessar will visit the Kolkata Memorial Monument from where her ancestors had set sail for Trinidad and Tobago in the middle of the 19th Century. She will also visit her ancestral village of Bhelupur in Buxar district of
the State of Bihar.

Discussions between the Prime Minister of India and the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago were held in a warm and friendly atmosphere with full mutual understanding, characteristic of the close relations between the two countries. The official talks
covered bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The two sides expressed satisfaction that the bilateral interaction and partnership between India and Trinidad and Tobago encompassing political, economic, trade, investment, energy, tourism, agriculture, science & technology, medical, education and culture
was progressing in a positive direction. At the same time, the Leaders of the two sides noted that there was considerable potential towards further development and consolidation of the historical relations between the two countries and agreed to work together
for further enhancement of the multi-faceted relations to a higher level. Leaders recalled that the bilateral relations between India and Trinidad and Tobago were anchored on shared democratic values, respect for human rights, mutual understanding and cooperation
and a similarity of views on major international issues.

During the visit, the following Agreements were concluded: a Bilateral Air Services Agreement; an MoU on Cooperation in Traditional Indian Medicine; an MoU on setting up of a Chair on Ayurveda in the University of West Indies; Programme of Cultural Exchanges
and; Technical Cooperation Agreement in the field of Education.

Prime Ministers of India and Trinidad and Tobago highly appreciated the results of the first meeting of the Joint Ministerial Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation between the two countries which was held at the Foreign Ministers level in November
2011 in New Delhi. They welcomed the results of the Ministerial Joint Commission which is an important institutional framework for providing a direction to the development of bilateral cooperation.

Trade, Economic and Investment

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the growing engagement between India and Trinidad and Tobago in trade and investments. They noted that bilateral trade has a vast potential which needs to be tapped with renewed efforts by encouraging participation
in each other’s trade fairs, business seminars and conclaves and exchange of business delegations. They agreed to diversify trade and investments to prospective areas such as conventional and renewable energy, SMEs, ICT, Pharmaceuticals & Medical equipments
and consumables, Health, Wellness Tourism, Ayurveda, Entertainment, Shipping among others.

The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago welcomed the announcement by the Indian side to increase the number of ITEC scholarships from the current number of 30 to 50 commencing the year 2012.

Energy

The two sides noted that the importance of energy security to cater to their development needs. They reiterated their interest to collaborate in the energy sector for a mutually beneficial partnership. In this context, they noted Trinidad and Tobago’s strength
in the energy sector and the possibilities for closer technical and commercial cooperation between the two countries in this regard. Both sides welcomed the fact that Indian companies from the public and private sectors have expressed interest in investing
in Trinidad and Tobago. They agreed that at the invitation of Trinidad and Tobago, an Indian delegation led by the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas would visit Trinidad and Tobago in the near future to further concretise areas of mutually beneficial cooperation.

The two sides expressed support for closer bilateral interaction in the utilisation of renewable and alternative sources of energy and appropriate technologies as a basis for sustainable development and as part of the global effort in addressing the challenges
of Climate Change.

Information Technology

Both sides noted the growing importance of Information and Communications Technology as a powerful catalyst in the development of their economies. The Trinidad and Tobago side expressed its keenness to transform its country into an inter-connected, technologically
advanced society with modern information and communication systems for economic growth and social progress. They expressed their interest for partnership with the Indian IT sector in the development of an Information Technology Park which will drive innovation,
conception and design of efficient technologies. The Indian side agreed to encourage the Indian IT sector, both public and private, to collaborate with Trinidad and Tobago in its endeavour to develop an efficient IT industry.

Health Sector

The Trinidad and Tobago side expressed its interest to develop Trinidad and Tobago as a hub of medical and healthcare tourism in their region. The Indian side agreed to assist Trinidad and Tobago in this endeavour. The Indian side also agreed to develop
the Indian system of traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda in Trinidad and Tobago. The Trinidad and Tobago side welcomed the Indian proposal to set up a Chair in Ayurveda in the University of West Indies.

Education

Both sides expressed their interest to intensify educational linkages, especially in the technical and higher education areas through use of IT enabled services such as e-Education. In this regard they underscored that the bilateral Technical Cooperation
Agreement in the field of education would facilitate closer academic ties.

Tourism

Both sides recognised that the vast tourism potential in each other’s countries needs to be fully realised through cooperation in training in travel and hospitality sectors and though greater tourist exchanges between the two countries. They noted that
the Bilateral Air Services Agreement signed during the visit would facilitate better air connectivity between the two countries and help in the people-to-people exchanges and trade. The Indian side appreciated the decision of the Government of Trinidad & Tobago
for according visa waiver facility to Indian citizens for a period of 90 days. Both sides recognised that this will further enhance business and tourist movement between the two countries.

Films

The Trinidad and Tobago side underlined the growing importance of its creative industry, notably in the areas of Fashion, Film and Animation. They invited India’s participation in the development of these areas through transfer of technology, investment
and training. It was agreed to explore mutually beneficial opportunities in these sectors through institutional linkages and involvement of Bollywood production units.

Arts and Culture

Both sides recognised that the historical and cultural linkages between the two countries are being further strengthened through the Mahatma Gandhi Centre for Cultural Cooperation in Port of Spain set up in 1996. The Trinidad and Tobago side expressed its
appreciation for the active role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations in the promotion of Indian culture and arts through various activities as well as through setting up of Chairs on Contemporary Indian Studies and Hindi. Both sides expressed satisfaction
at the conclusion of the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for the period 2012-14 noting that it will give fresh impetus to the existing cultural ties.

International Developments and Multilateralism

The two sides exchanged views on a broad range of regional and international issues of mutual interest. They discussed developments in South Asia and the Caribbean region. They reaffirmed their commitment to fight hunger and poverty, promote democratic
values and foster economic development and emphasised the importance of implementing the Millennium Development Goals.

The two sides emphasised the central role of the UN in maintaining global peace and security; promoting the economic and social advancement of all people; and for meeting global threats and challenges. Both sides expressed the need to implement the process
of UN reforms to make it more representative, legitimate and effective. They agreed that any expansion and restructuring of the Security Council must reflect contemporary realities, increased transparency and democracy and include developing countries in both
categories of membership. The Trinidad and Tobago side reiterated its support for India’s permanent membership in an expanded UNSC.

Both sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in the international communities’ joint endeavour in eliminating the menace of international terrorism. They also noted their cooperation in the UN in this
regard and urged the international community to adopt a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the earliest.

The two sides recognised that Climate Change is a global challenge with strong economic, environmental and social dimensions. It impacts all countries, but is particularly severe for developing countries, given their vulnerabilities, inadequate means and
limited capacities to adapt to its effects. They called on developed countries to take the lead in mitigation efforts and provide the necessary means of implementation, including financial and technological support.

The two sides expressed deep concern over the international economic and financial crisis and agreed that the current situation demands restructuring of the international financial and monetary system. They underlined that the voice of emerging and developing
economies, in the international financial and monetary system, should be heard in order to avoid new and potentially more calamitous crises in the future and contribute to the inclusive growth.

The Prime Minister of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago sincerely thanked the Prime Minister of the Republic of India for the warm hospitality extended to her and the accompanying delegation. She invited the Prime Minister of India to pay a State Visit to
Trinidad and Tobago. The invitation was duly accepted.

New Delhi
January 06, 2012

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MEA1798115683Vision for the Enhancement of India-Japan Strategic and Global Partnership upon entering the year of the 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations

The Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Mr. Yoshihiko Noda, is currently paying a State Visit to India for the Annual Summit of the Prime Ministers on 27-28 December 2011 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh. The two Prime
Ministers held extensive talks on bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest on 28 December 2011.

In the context of the two countries commemorating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2012, the two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that India and Japan enjoy deep mutual understanding and vibrant people-to-people contact as
the relationship is based on universal values such as democracy, human rights and rule of law, as well as wide-ranging strategic and economic interests. They stressed the need to enhance the Strategic and Global Partnership for peace and prosperity.

Prime Minister Noda expressed, on behalf of the Government and people of Japan, his profound gratitude for the heartfelt sympathy and support extended to them from the Government and people of India following the Great East Japan Earthquake, and emphasised
his resolve to make utmost efforts for a reconstruction open to the world. Prime Minister Singh reiterated his solidarity with Japan and expressed his confidence that the people of Japan will overcome the calamity with their unwavering spirit and that Japan’s
economy will recover to its full strength soon. Prime Minister Singh welcomed Japan’s initiative to strengthen international cooperation in the area of disaster risk reduction, including the holding of an international conference in the Tohoku region in 2012.
Prime Minister Noda conveyed his decision to invite approximately six hundred Indian youth under the new "Kizuna (bond) Project” aimed at promoting global understanding of Japan’s revival in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake. Prime Minister Singh
welcomed the project and assured cooperation by the Government of India for its success.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the significance of Annual Summits between them. They expressed satisfaction at Ministerial-level and other policy dialogues such as those between Foreign Ministers and Defense Ministers. They noted that the Ministerial
Level Economic Dialogue, to be held at the earliest possible opportunity in 2012, would further enhance their economic partnership by giving it strategic and long-term policy orientation. The two Prime Ministers expressed hope that the India-Japan Ministerial
Business-Government Policy Dialogue between the Minister of Commerce and Industry of India and the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan will be held in 2012. The two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of various working-level discussions between
the two countries, and welcomed the launch of the India-Japan-US trilateral dialogue, which would deepen strategic and global partnership amongst the three countries.

Recognising the growing security and defense cooperation between the two countries, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force to be held in 2012.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the entry into force of India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on 1 August 2011. Asserting that CEPA is an important milestone in the trade and economic relations between the two countries, they
expressed hope that CEPA will further deepen their economic engagement in terms of trade in goods, services, investment and contribute immensely to mutual prosperity.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the commencement of negotiations on an agreement between India and Japan on Social Security, which will contribute to the promotion of economic activities by private sectors of both countries. They instructed their relevant
authorities to work towards an early conclusion of the negotiations.

Prime Minister Singh expressed his appreciation to the Government and the people of Japan for their unwavering support to India's development, even in the midst of Japan’s reconstruction efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Prime Minister
Noda reaffirmed that the Government of Japan would continue to provide its Official Development Assistance (ODA) at a substantial level to encourage India’s efforts towards social and economic development including in the area of infrastructure development.
In this context, Prime Minister Noda pledged that the Government of Japan would extend loans totaling 134.288 billion yen to two new projects, namely, "Delhi Mass Rapid Transport System Project Phase III” and "West Bengal Forest and Biodiversity Conservation
Project” as the projects of first batch in the fiscal year 2011. Prime Minister Singh appreciated the commitment by Prime Minister Noda.

The two Prime Ministers emphasised the importance of an early realisation of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) which runs through the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) with Japan’s support. In this context, both sides will expedite work
on Phase II of the DFC with a view to starting implementation of the project as early as possible.

The two Prime Ministers shared the vision for the development of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) that the governments and private sectors of the two countries cooperate in a mutually complementary manner to develop an environmentally sustainable,
long-lasting and technologically advanced infrastructure in the region of DMIC. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the launch of a 9 billion dollar India-Japan DMIC facility. Noting the significant progress made by India’s contribution of a 175 billion rupee
fund for development of trunk infrastructure, Prime Minister Noda announced the intention of the Government of Japan to make available for DMIC projects Japan’s public and private finance totaling 4.5 billion dollars in the next five years, which includes
appropriate financing from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) as well as ODA loan. The two Prime Ministers felt that the DMIC Project would redefine the character of infrastructure growth in India through advanced technology and green growth.
They also felt that active involvement of Japanese agencies and companies would provide an impetus for the development of DMIC. Towards this end, they welcomed Japan’s active involvement through equity participation in DMIC Development Corporation (DMICDC)
as well as provision of technical expertise, board members and experts. In order to effectively utilise the facility and to facilitate investments by Japanese companies, India will endeavour to resolve issues within the existing regulatory framework and guidelines
of capital regulations, and an inter-departmental consultation mechanism will also be established by India to provide expeditious solutions to issues raised by Japan during the course of implementation of the DMIC Project. To meet the energy requirements in
the DMIC region, adequate gas for power projects of DMIC would be made available at reasonable rates and in a timely manner. They expressed satisfaction at the steady progress of the individual Early Bird Projects and Smart Community Projects in the DMIC.
In particular, the two Prime Ministers decided to accelerate the efforts by the relevant authorities for an early realisation of the following projects: seawater desalination at Dahej, Gujarat; a microgrid system using large-scale photo-voltaic (PV) power
generation at Neemrana Industrial Area in Rajasthan; and gas-fired independent power producer (IPP) in Maharashtra, recognising their potential to serve as a successful model of India-Japan cooperation on the DMIC.

The two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of infrastructure development in the areas between Chennai and Bengaluru, where an increasing number of Japanese companies including SMEs have made direct investments to establish their manufacturing base
or other forms of business presence. Against this background, they decided to strengthen efforts to improve infrastructure such as ports, industrial parks and their surrounding facilities in Ennore, Chennai and the adjoining areas. Prime Minister Noda conveyed
Japan’s intention to extend financial and technical support to the preparation of India’s Comprehensive Integrated Master Plan of this region based on which planned development and work on related facilities could be taken up expeditiously. The two Prime Ministers
directed their officials concerned to speedily operationalise the modalities for preparation of the Comprehensive Integrated Master Plan and get it completed at the earliest.

Prime Minister Noda expressed his desire that Japan’s technologies and expertise be utilised in the development of India’s high-speed railway system. Prime Minister Singh welcomed Japan’s interest in promoting the development of high-speed railway system
in India.

13. Recognising the importance of upgradation of speed of passenger trains to 160-200 kmph on existing Delhi-Mumbai route of the western leg of the Golden Rail Corridor for India’s economic development, the two Prime Ministers looked forward to continued
cooperation. They welcomed the progress of pre-feasibility study with Japan’s financial and technical assistance, and expressed hope that the final report will be ready by February 2012 and feasibility study of the project will be undertaken with Japan’s cooperation
in 2012.

The two Prime Ministers recognised the importance of cooperation in the development of expressways in India including through capacity building.

Amid global economic uncertainties, ensuring the stability of the financial markets is all the more important for the stable economic development of the two countries. To this end, the two Prime Ministers decided to enhance the earlier bilateral currency
swap arrangement from 3 to 15 billion US dollars. The two Prime Ministers expressed hope that this enhancement will further strengthen financial cooperation, contribute to ensuring financial market stability and further develop growing economic and trade ties
between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance of civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries. Prime Minister Noda stated that Japan would provide information with transparency regarding the status of the ongoing investigation on the causes of
the nuclear accident at TEPCO’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, as well as its efforts to enhance nuclear safety. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the progress made to date in negotiations between India and Japan on an Agreement for Cooperation in
the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, and directed their negotiators to exert further efforts towards a conclusion of the Agreement, having due regard to each side’s relevant interests, including nuclear safety. In this regard, Prime Minister Noda explained
Japan’s position.

The two Prime Ministers reiterated the importance of energy cooperation. In this context, they expressed hope that the 5th meeting of the India-Japan Energy Dialogue will be held in 2012.

Recognising the importance of rare earths and rare metals in industries of both countries, the two Prime Ministers decided to enhance bilateral cooperation in this area by enterprises of their countries. They decided that Indian and Japanese enterprises
would jointly undertake industrial activities to produce and export rare earths at the earliest.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the progress made in 2011 on facilitation of trade in high technology between the two countries. They asked the relevant authorities to maintain dialogue to maximise the potential of high technology trade keeping in mind
the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed progress on bilateral engagements in Science and Technology (S&T), including the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme. The maturity of the S&T relationship is reflected in the cutting edge joint R&D projects being implemented
in frontier areas like molecular sciences, advanced materials including surface & interface sciences, modern biology & biotechnology, astronomy & space sciences, and manufacturing sciences. The establishment of a beam-line facility at the Photon Factory of
KEK, Tsukuba preferentially for use by Indian researchers in the area of material sciences is another aspect of the mature S&T relationship. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the developments under "Committee on India-Japan ICT (Information and Communication
Technology) Strategy for Economic Growth”, including joint researches in the fields of mobile broadcasting and e-learning systems. They shared the view that they will further enhance business tie-ups, explore opportunities for Japanese industries in electronics
system design and manufacturing in India, collaborative R&D activities and policy cooperation in the field of ICT including smart network and digital contents, through close bilateral cooperation.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the expansion of India-Japan collaboration for the development of the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IIT-H) including campus development, and the steady progress in the establishment of the Indian Institute of
Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing Jabalpur (IIITDM-J) with Japan’s support. The two Prime Ministers appreciated the progress of the Visionary Leaders for Manufacturing (VLFM) Programme and acknowledged that the programme not only helps India’s
manufacturing sector but has become a showcase of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. They welcomed the extension of the programme till March 2013. The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that since 2007, approximately 2,300 Indian youth
have visited Japan through "Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youth” (JENESYS) programme, and expressed their resolve to continue efforts to facilitate people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers expressed their expectation that the strengthening of cooperation in creative industries, which range from design, apparel, fashion, food, house-hold goods, music, movies, animation and manga, and traditional craft, would further
promote and deepen mutual understanding of the two countries.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their support for the East Asia Summit (EAS) as a forum for dialogue on broad strategic, political and economic issues of common interest and concern with the aim of promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity in
East Asia. They acknowledged the significant role the EAS can play as a forum for building an open, inclusive and transparent architecture of regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. They welcomed the participation of the United States of America and
the Russian Federation in the EAS. They expressed support for the EAS as a Leaders-led forum with ASEAN as the driving force. In the context of the Declaration of the East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations and the Declaration
on ASEAN Connectivity adopted at the 6th EAS, the two Prime Ministers reiterated their commitment to the promotion of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership in East Asia (CEPEA) as a step towards attaining economic integration in East Asia. They also welcomed
the progress to establish ASEAN Plus Working Groups and decided to cooperate in the Groups. They also expressed their support for ASEAN Connectivity and considered the possibility of having a "Connectivity Master Plan Plus” which would develop further linkages
between ASEAN and its partners, with appropriate reference to the "Comprehensive Asia Development Plan”, and welcomed support and inputs from Economic Research Institute of ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) for attaining economic integration in East Asia. They noted
with satisfaction that CEPA between India and Japan is an important step for regional integration.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the commitment of India and Japan, as two maritime nations in Asia, to the universally-agreed principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and other relevant
international maritime law. They affirmed expansion of cooperation in maritime security including safety and freedom of navigation and anti-piracy activities, by promoting bilateral and multilateral exercises, and through information sharing, as well as dialogues.
In this context, they also welcomed the joint exercise between the Indian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard to be held in January 2012.

The two Prime Ministers appreciated the progress made with regard to the establishment of the Nalanda University and reiterated their support to its revival as an icon of Asian renaissance and as an international institute of excellence. India welcomed
Japan’s intention to provide tangible contribution to this initiative including through measures to enhance academic exchange and human resource development.

The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that three rounds of India-Japan Dialogue on Africa have been concluded. They expressed satisfaction that areas of cooperation on Africa have been identified including peace keeping operations and economic
development.

The two Prime Ministers expressed their commitment to continuing their assistance to Afghanistan so that it would become a stable, democratic and pluralistic state, free from terrorism and extremism. They emphasised the importance of a coherent and united
international commitment to Afghan-led initiatives, in order to make transition irreversible through reconciliation and re-integration, sustainable development and regional cooperation, while adhering to the principles expressed in the Bonn Conference. In
this context, Prime Minister Singh welcomed Japan’s intention to host a ministerial conference in Tokyo in July 2012. The two Prime Ministers pledged to explore opportunities for consultation on their respective assistance projects, including those projects
implemented in the neighbouring countries, that advance Afghanistan’s mid- and long-term development and build its civilian capacity.

The two Prime Ministers condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purpose. Prime Minister Noda strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Mumbai on 13 July 2011 and in Delhi on 7 September
2011. They resolved to develop greater cooperation in combating terrorism through sharing information and utilising the India-Japan Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, as well as cooperation in multilateral forums such as the Financial Action Task Force
(FATF) and the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum (GCTF). Reaffirming the importance of counter-terrorism cooperation at the United Nations, the two Prime Ministers recognised the urgent need to finalise and adopt the Comprehensive Convention on International
Terrorism in the United Nations and called upon all States to cooperate in resolving the outstanding issues expeditiously.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Noda stressed the importance of bringing into force the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) at an early date. Prime Minister
Singh reiterated India's commitment to a unilateral and voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to working together for immediate commencement and an early conclusion of negotiations on a non-discriminatory,
multilateral and internationally and effectively verifiable Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) in the Conference on Disarmament, bearing in mind the United Nations General Assembly resolution on "Treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear
weapons or other nuclear explosive devices” (A/RES/66/44). They decided that both countries would enhance cooperation in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation through dialogues, including at bilateral nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation meetings
as well as at the Conference on Disarmament. They reiterated that nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing processes. They called upon the need to address the challenges of nuclear terrorism and clandestine proliferation.
They also reaffirmed the importance of working together towards the success of the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit in March 2012.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the outcome of the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Durban in December 2011 and stressed the need for maintaining close cooperation to ensure a mutually acceptable
outcome of the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. Prime Minister Noda emphasised the importance of global efforts toward low-carbon growth and climate resilient world, referring to Japan’s vision and actions to that end. In this context, the two Prime Ministers
reaffirmed the need to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation to promote sustainable development, including actions for GHG emissions reductions, promotion of low-carbon technologies, products and services, etc. Prime Minister Singh noted the East Asia
Low Carbon Growth Partnership Initiative proposed by Prime Minister Noda at the East Asia Summit. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that the two countries cooperate with each other for a successful outcome of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development
(Rio+20) in 2012. The two Prime Ministers expressed their hope for the success of the 11th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD-COP11) to be held in Hyderabad, India in 2012.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their resolve to realise reform of the United Nations Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories. They concurred in participating actively on this basis in the intergovernmental
negotiations in the UN General Assembly and decided to redouble their efforts, so as to make the Security Council more representative, legitimate, effective, and responsive to the realities of the international community in the 21st century.

The two Prime Ministers expressed their resolve to continue to maintain and strengthen multilateral trading system, based on the outcome of the 8th WTO Ministerial Conference held in Geneva this month.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the role of the G-20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation that offers opportunities for developed and emerging countries to have discussions and promote cooperation. Considering various risks that
the world economy is facing today, they reiterated their commitment to ensure effective implementation of the G-20 Cannes Summit decisions including the Cannes Action Plan, which aims to achieve the Strong, Sustainable and Balanced Growth. They expressed concern
over the slowing of global economic growth and tensions in the financial markets due to sovereign risks in Europe. They shared an expectation that the decisions of the European Council of 9 December 2011 towards stabilisation of the financial markets and strengthening
of economic policy coordination and governance would be implemented effectively and in a timely manner through coordinated efforts by the European leaders. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment made at G-20 Cannes Summit on anti-protectionism.

The two Prime Ministers expressed their determination to promote their cooperative efforts in the remaining period for attaining the Millennium Development Goals and even beyond 2015, focusing on individuals and human welfare.

Prime Minister Noda expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality of Prime Minister Singh and the Government of India. Prime Minister Noda extended an invitation to Prime Minister Singh for the next Annual Bilateral Summit in Japan in
2012 at a mutually convenient date to be decided through diplomatic channels. Prime Minister Singh accepted the invitation with pleasure.

Both sides reviewed the implementation and strengthening of existing CBMs in the framework of Lahore MoU, and agreed to explore possibilities for mutually acceptable additional CBMs.

The two sides agreed to recommend to their Foreign Secretaries to extend the validity of the "Agreement on Reducing the Risk from Accidents Relating to Nuclear Weapons” for another five years.

Both sides will report the progress in talks to their respective Foreign Secretaries.

Islamabad
December 27, 2011 ]]>29-12-2011 13:26:32MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/15685/Joint+Statement+on+the+Sixth+Round+of+IndiaPakistan+Expert+Level+Talks+on+Nuclear+CBMs
MEA1568515691Agreement signed during the visit of Foreign Minister of Thailand

Sl. No.

Name of Agreement

Thailand Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Agreed Minutes of the
Sixth India-Thailand
Joint Commission Meeting

H.E. Mr. Surapong
Tovichakchaikul
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Shri S.M. Krishna

Minister of External Affairs

New Delhi
December 27, 2011 ]]>29-12-2011 13:31:35MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/15691/Agreement+signed+during+the+visit+of+Foreign+Minister+of+Thailand
MEA1569115694Joint Statement on the 5th Round of India-Pakistan Expert Level Talks on Conventional CBMs
The Pakistan delegation to the talks was led by Mr. Munawar Saeed Bhatti, Additional Secretary (UN&EC), Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Mr. Y K Sinha, Joint Secretary (PAI) of the Ministry of External Affairs, led the Indian delegation.

The talks were held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere.

The two sides reviewed the implementation of existing CBMs, including the ceasefire along the LoC, and reaffirmed their commitment to continue discussions on conventional CBMs.

The two sides will report progress made during the current round of talks to their respective Foreign Secretaries.

Islamabad
December 26, 2011 ]]>29-12-2011 13:34:30MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/15694/Joint+Statement+on+the+5th+Round+of+IndiaPakistan+Expert+Level+Talks+on+Conventional+CBMs
MEA1569415701Joint Statement furthering the India-Russia Strategic Partnership to meet the challenges of a changing World

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India H.E. Dr Manmohan Singh paid an official visit to the Russian Federation from 15-17 December 2011 at the invitation of the President of the Russian Federation H.E. Dmitry Medvedev. H.E. Dr Manmohan Singh, Prime
Minister of the Republic of India, held talks with H.E. Dmitry Medvedev, President of the Russian Federation, and H.E. Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

During the talks, the sides appreciated the advancement and further enhancement of the special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia. The sides noted that intense dialogue and regular high-level meetings that had taken place since
the annual Summit in December 2010 helped to meet the challenges of the rapidly changing global situation and to promote close coordination of joint efforts in the international arena and also contributed to the continued implementation of large-scale trade,
economic, investment, defence, scientific and technical projects, humanitarian and cultural exchanges, and people-to-people level contacts in the spirit of the traditional friendship between the two nations.

The sides noted with satisfaction that the entry into force of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Russian Federation on Mutual Simplification of Travel Documents for Certain Categories of Nationals of
the two countries would promote broader business and scientific cooperation, boost professional, student and other exchanges between India and Russia.

The sides decided to commemorate the 65th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Russia in 2012 in both the countries in a fitting manner.

Enhancing bilateral trade, investments and innovative cooperation

The sides noted the fruitful work carried out by the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation which held its XVII session in Moscow on November 18, 2011. Decisions adopted by the Intergovernmental
Commission and aimed at ensuring dynamic growth of bilateral economic ties focused on innovative and high-technology components, as well as investment projects that would contribute to the modernization and growth of both the economies. India welcomed Russia’s
impending entry into the WTO. The sides decided to jointly study the possibility of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement between India and the Belarus-Kazakhstan-Russia Custom Union. The sides decided to actively exchange business missions in various
fields of cooperation and to work out details on industrial modernization opportunities in India. They decided to explore the setting up of a joint investment fund and to promote greater cooperation between the regions of the two countries. The sides expressed
satisfaction that several joint projects in the Hydrocarbon, Steel, Mining, Automobile, Fertilizer and Pharmaceutical sectors are currently being pursued.

Energy Cooperation

The sides emphasized that cooperation in the energy sector had become one of the important pillars of the India-Russia Strategic Partnership. They reiterated their commitment to further long term joint collaboration in the civilian nuclear energy sector,
as well as in the hydrocarbon sector.

The sides reiterated their commitment to implement their plans for a long term partnership in the field of peaceful nuclear energy as envisaged in the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Russian Federation
on Cooperation in the Use of Atomic Energy for Peaceful Purposes and the Road Map for strengthening large-scale cooperation between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Russian Federation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy which
were concluded on March 12, 2010.

The sides noted with satisfaction the successful promotion of cooperation in the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes and reaffirmed their commitment to the highest standards of safety of nuclear technologies. The sides recognized the competence
and rich experience of Russian organizations in design and technical assistance and of Indian organizations in the construction of nuclear power plants and their technical expertise. The sides looked forward to the early commissioning of the first two units
at Kudankulam.

As regards construction of Units 3 & 4 at the Kudankulam site, as envisaged in the "Inter-Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in the Construction of Additional Nuclear Plants Units at the Kudankulum site as well as in the Construction of Russian Design
Nuclear Power Plants at New Sites in the Republic of India” of December 5, 2008, the sides noted with satisfaction that the discussions on the text of the Protocol for grant of State Credit by the Russian Federation to the Republic of India had been finalized
and that negotiations on the techno-commercial offer on the construction of Units 3 and 4 were in an advanced stage. The sides reiterated their commitment to the agreements reached previously on the construction of Russian design nuclear power plants at new
sites in the Republic of India.

The sides reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector, pursuant to the Framework Agreement for enhanced cooperation in oil and gas between the Republic of India and the Russian Federation that was signed on December 21,
2010. The Indian side reiterated its interest in equity participation through ONGC-OVL in new projects in Russia.

Space research

The sides commended the successful launch, by India, of the jointly built YouthSat for space science studies; and expressed satisfaction on the progress in implementation of the joint lunar exploration project. The sides agreed to continue cooperation in
the space sector in the fields of satellite navigation and manned missions. The sides expressed mutual interest in using the Russian global navigation satellite system GLONASS and looked forward to furthering their cooperation in this field, including through
the joint production of satellite navigation equipment and services for civilian users.

Military-Technical cooperation

The sides welcomed the outcome of the eleventh meeting of the India-Russia Inter Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation in addressing issues of mutual concern. The sides took note of the progress made in important joint defence projects
such as the refitment of aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya (Admiral Gorshkov), joint development and production of Multi-Role Transport Aircraft, Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft and licensed production of various Russian origin defence equipment and armaments
in India.

Scientific and technological cooperation

The sides noted with satisfaction that the major mechanism of interaction between India and Russia in the field of science and technology was the Integrated Long-Term Program (ILTP) for cooperation in the areas of science, technology and innovations for
the period up to 2020 that is unique by its scale and diversity. The sides noted with satisfaction that the Moscow office of the India-Russia Science & Technology Centre (IRSTC) was inaugurated and that the New Delhi office would also be inaugurated shortly.
They observed that the Centre would work in the very important area of commercialization of technologies. The sides agreed to support technology intensive programmes in areas such as bio-medical technology, nanotechnology, deep-ocean techniques and technologies,
and information & communication technologies. The sides encouraged the ongoing dialogue on technology intensive cooperation in areas of technology solutions for fly ash utilization.

Education

The sides noted the exchange of delegations of experts to hold discussions on a new intergovernmental Agreement on mutual recognition and equivalence of educational documents and degrees including medical documents and degrees. The sides agreed to continue
their constructive discussions on the issue and to promote educational exchanges between the two countries.

Cultural and humanitarian exchanges

The sides noted the deep and rich cultural heritage of both the peoples and centuries-old bonds of friendship between them. The sides commended the impact of the Festival of Indian Culture in Russia held in Moscow, St Petersburg and Kazan in September 2011
under the Cultural Exchange Programme for 2010- 2012 between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation that was signed on December 7, 2009. A festival of Russian Culture in India is scheduled
for 2012.

Coordination at the United Nations

As an important element of their Strategic Partnership, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to work together to strengthen the central coordinating role of the United Nations in international affairs as well as the crucial role of its Security Council
in the maintenance of international peace and security. In this context, they reiterated their agreement to further strengthen their cooperation on issues related to the reform of the UN and its Security Council and stressed that the reform of the UN Security
Council should be carried out in a manner that makes this body more representative and effective in dealing with both present and emerging challenges. The Russian Federation expressed strong support to India for a permanent seat in an expanded UN Security
Council. The two sides also expressed satisfaction with their cooperation in the UN Security Council since January 1, 2011, when India joined the Council as a non-permanent member, and agreed to take this cooperation forward.

International financial and economic architecture

The sides expressed concern over negative trends in the global economy. They noted that the financial and economic situation in the Euro zone was a source of particular concern. The sides welcomed the decisions of the Cannes Summit of the G-20, particularly,
the Action Plan for steady, sustainable and balanced growth of the global economy. The sides emphasized that all countries needed to implement the Plan in an active and coordinated manner.

The sides identified successful completion of the IMF reform under the terms and conditions agreed in the framework of the G-20 as a key element of the general reform of the international financial architecture.

Situation in the Middle East and North Africa

In the context of the situation in the Middle East and North Africa, the sides reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of: searching the way to overcome crises in the region in compliance with law, exclusively through peaceful means, avoiding violence
and outside intervention, through broad, inclusive national dialogue on democratic reforms, taking into account the legitimate rights and aspirations of the peoples of the region.

They agreed that the fundamental transformation taking place in the states of the Middle East and North Africa should not be used as a pretext to delay resolution of lasting conflicts, but rather as an incentive to settle them. They spoke in favour of achieving
comprehensive, just and final settlement of the Arab-Israel conflict on the basis of universally recognized international legal framework including the relevant UN resolutions, the Madrid principles and the Arab Peace Initiative. The sides support an early
resumption of the Palestinian-Israeli negotiations aiming at the establishment of an independent, viable and territorially unified Palestinian State within the borders based on the lines of 1967, with negotiated mutually agreed territorial exchanges and East
Jerusalem as its capital as well as joint efforts of the Middle East Quartet of international mediators. They called upon for early restoration of Palestinian unity. A common All-Palestinian position based on PLO principles and the Arab Peace Initiative would
contribute to progress towards a Palestine-Israeli settlement, as also peace and security for all the countries and peoples of the region.

Security and cooperation in the region of Asia and the Indian and Pacific Oceans

The sides reiterated their support to the creation of a transparent, open, comprehensive, and balanced architecture of security and cooperation in the region based on the recognized principles of international law as well as respect for the legitimate interests
of all states. They emphasized their commitment to the principle of indivisibility of security, unacceptability of attempts to enhance their own security to the detriment of other states' security, inadmissibility of preservation and creation of new dividing
lines. The sides acknowledged the necessity of addressing both traditional and new security threats - terrorism, extremism, WMD proliferation, illicit drug trafficking, organized crime and maritime piracy. They expressed readiness to work closely within the
framework of the East Asia Summit, which they regard as a leaders-led forum for dialogue on broad strategic, political and economic issues of common interest and concern with the aim of promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity in East Asia.

The sides agreed that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) had become an important factor for regional security and cooperation. Russia welcomed India's intention to join the organization as a full-fledged member and expressed the belief that its
participation would significantly increase the political weight of the SCO and give new quality and dimension to cooperation within its framework. Russia stated that it stood for joint efforts with other SCO members to accelerate the process of India's full
membership of the organization.

The sides noted that there were already several examples of successful regional cooperation formats operating in Asia and Indian and Pacific Ocean region, including the interaction between Russia, India and China (RIC). The importance of this format in
fostering regional dialogue and cooperation was reaffirmed in the Joint Declaration of the 10th RIC Ministerial Meeting held on November 15, 2010 in Wuhan.

Development of BRICS Cooperation

The sides attached importance to strengthening cooperation among BRICS countries. They welcomed the growing role of BRICS in international political and economic life. The sides noted with satisfaction the progress achieved within the BRICS framework on
cooperation in finance, trade, science and technology, agriculture and healthcare. Both sides reaffirmed their desire to jointly contribute to further development of cooperation within BRICS for the benefit of peoples of participating states.
The sides expressed confidence that the forthcoming BRICS Summit in 2012 to be chaired by India would be an important step towards strengthening the role of the grouping in the reform of global governance and towards further deepening intra-BRICS cooperation.

Disarmament and non-proliferation

India and the Russian Federation, as responsible states, possessing advanced nuclear technologies, share the objective of preventive proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, including preventing their possible acquisition
by terrorist groups. Both sides agreed on the need for all states possessing nuclear weapons to accelerate concrete progress on the steps leading to global nuclear disarmament in a way that promotes international stability, peace and undiminished and increased
security for all.

Both sides expressed interest in strengthening multilateral export control regimes as an important component of the global non-proliferation regime. In this regard, the Russian side reiterated readiness to assist and promote a discussion and positive decision
in the NSG on India’s full membership in the NSG, and welcomed India’s intention to seek full membership. India underscored its determination to actively contribute to international efforts aimed at strengthening nuclear non-proliferation regime. The Russian
Federation also took into consideration India’s interest in full membership in MTCR and the Wassenaar Arrangement.

While recognizing the inherent right of states to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, India and the Russian Federation stressed the need for all states to comply with their respective obligations on non-proliferation. The sides support the central
role of the IAEA and its safeguards system in the promotion of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, in accordance with its statute. The sides intend to support international efforts aimed at promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy as part of a proliferation-resistant
architecture of international cooperation, based on strict implementation of non-proliferation obligations. As supplier states, the sides support multilateral approaches to the nuclear fuel cycle at the IAEA.

Combating Terrorism

The sides recalled the bilateral Moscow Declaration between India and the Russian Federation on International Terrorism signed on November 6, 2001 in Moscow. They strongly condemned the existence of safe havens and sanctuaries for terrorism, and reiterated
that States that aid, abet or shelter terrorists were as guilty of acts of terrorism as their actual perpetrators.

Both sides reaffirmed the need for all states to combine efforts to vanquish terrorism. They agreed that there was no justification whatsoever for any act of terrorism, and that India and Russia being pluralistic states were especially vulnerable to acts
of terrorism which are attacks against the values and freedoms, enshrined in their societies. Both sides reaffirmed that international terrorism is a threat to peace and security, a grave violation of human rights and a crime against humanity. They reaffirmed
the central role of the United Nations in the combat against international terrorism and in this context called for an early adoption of the UN’s draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

Combating Illicit Drug Trafficking

The sides emphasized the importance of joint bilateral and multilateral efforts in the fight against illicit drug trafficking which poses a growing threat to international peace and stability, taking into account the fact that this criminal business had
become one of the main financial source of international terrorism. The sides confirmed their intention to closely interact in preparation for the Third Ministerial Conference of the Paris Pact initiative to be held in Vienna on February 16, 2012.

Iran's Nuclear Energy Programme

India and the Russian Federation expressed concern over the situation emerging around Iran’s nuclear programme. Both sides support a comprehensive and long-term settlement of the situation through exclusively political and diplomatic means by promoting
dialogue. The sides noted in this context that unilateral sanctions could be counter-productive. They recognized Iran’s right to develop research, produce and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in conformity with its international obligations. India
and the Russian Federation urged Iran to comply with the provisions of the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and extend full cooperation to the IAEA. Afghanistan.

The sides expressed their readiness to continue promoting the establishment of Afghanistan as a peaceful, democratic and independent state, free from terrorism, outside interference and drug-related crimes, with a sustainable economy. They expressed concern
over escalation of extremist activity throughout the territory of the country, including previously relatively peaceful provinces, drug production growth, and unresolved socio-economic problems.

Supporting the transfer of responsibility for the situation in the country to the National Security Forces, the sides urge to intensify efforts to build up their capacity. The sides believe that the international military presence in Afghanistan should
be linked to the security situation on the ground.

India and the Russian Federation support the efforts taken by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to establish a peaceful dialogue with the armed opposition, provided that the process goes on under the Afghan leadership and that the fighters
meet the redlines enunciated by the international community: the recognition of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, renunciation of violence and breaking with al-Qaeda and other terrorist organizations. They consider it necessary to continue
the UN Security Council sanctions regime as an essential anti-terror tool.

The sides noted with satisfaction the growing global understanding of the important role played by the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan neighboring states, states and organizations of the region, and urge to focus the efforts in the region on the development
and improvement of sound structures of regional cooperation, like the SCO and SAARC amongst others. They expect that the international community in their efforts in this regard will respect the decisions taken by the countries of the region in the framework
of these organizations.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India expressed his gratitude for the hospitality and cordial welcome during his official visit to Moscow and extended an invitation to the President of the Russian Federation to visit India. The invitation was accepted
with pleasure.

Moscow
December 16, 2011.

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MEA1570115724List of Agreements and Fact sheet on Indo-Russian documents concluded during the Annual Summit 201129-12-2011 14:56:27MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/15724/List+of+Agreements+and+Fact+sheet+on+IndoRussian+documents+concluded+during+the+Annual+Summit+2011
MEA1572415705Agreement signed during the visit of Minister of External Relations of Brazil

S. No.

Name of Agreement

Brazilian Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Agreed Minutes of the Fifth India-Brazil Joint Commission Meeting

H.E. MR. ANTONIO DE AGUIAR PATRIOTA Minister of External Relations

SHRI S.M. KRISHNA Minister of External Affairs

New Delhi
December 12, 2011 ]]>29-12-2011 14:23:04MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/15705/Agreement+signed+during+the+visit+of+Minister+of+External+Relations+of+Brazil
MEA157057007Agreement signed during the visit of FM of Ukraine

Name of Agreement

Signatory from Indian side

Signatory from Ukrainian side

Agreement between the Government of India and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on Visa Free Travels for Holders of Diplomatic Passports

Shri S.M. Krishna
Minister of External Affairs

H.E. Mr. Kostyantyn Gryshchenko
Foreign Minister

New Delhi
November 25, 2011 ]]>25-11-2011 16:46:39MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/7007/Agreement+signed+during+the+visit+of+FM+of+Ukraine
MEA70075400Joint Statement on the Occasion of Bilateral Visit of the Prime Minister to Maldives

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, paid a bilateral visit to Maldives on 11 & 12 November 2011 at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Maldives, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Nasheed. He was accompanied by Smt. Gursharan
Kaur and an official delegation.

After a ceremonial welcome in Male, the Prime Minister of India met the President of Maldives, Mr. Mohamed Nasheed, on November 12, 2011. The Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Thasmeen Ali, subsequently called on the Prime Minister of India. The meetings were
marked by warmth and cordiality.

The Prime Minister of India delivered an address to the People’s Majlis (Parliament) of the Republic of Maldives on November 12, 2011. The Speaker of the People’s Majlis, H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, while welcoming the Prime Minister of India to the People’s
Majlis, highlighted the fact that the Prime Minister of India would be the first foreign Head of State or Government to ever address the People’s Majlis in its 78 year history. The Prime Minister of India acknowledged the singular honour accorded to him by
the People’s Majlis as a measure of the closest affinity and affection between the people of the two fraternal neighbouring countries.

Official talks between India and Maldives were held on November 12, 2011 in an extremely warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere reflective of the special relationship between the two countries. President Nasheed hosted an official luncheon in honour of Prime
Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and the accompanying delegation.

The Prime Minister of India was assisted at the official talks by National Security Advisor Shri Shivshankar Menon, Foreign Secretary Shri Ranjan Mathai, High Commissioner of India to Maldives Shri Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay and other senior officials.

The President of Maldives was accompanied by Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed, Special Envoy of the President Mr Ibrahim Hussein Zaki, Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Home Affairs Mr Hassan Afeef, Minister of Finance and Treasury
Mr Ahmed Inaz, Minister of Health and Family Ms Aminath Jameel, Minister of Trade and Economic Development Mr Mohamed Razee, Minister of Housing and Environment Mr Mohamed Aslam, Minister of Education Dr Aminath Jameel, Minister of Education Ms Shifa Mohamed,
High Commissioner Designate to India Mr Ameen Faisal, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr Mohamed Naseer and other senior officials.

The two leaders recalled the geographical contiguity and ethnic, historical and cultural ties between the two countries. They reiterated an abiding faith in and commitment to democracy, development and peaceful co-existence.

They shared the confidence that cooperation at the bilateral, sub-regional and regional levels will enable the two countries to realise their developmental aspirations, and contribute to peace, prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean Region and South
Asia.

The Prime Minister of India congratulated the people of Maldives for their successful and peaceful transition to democracy. He, inter alia, reiterated the willingness of the Government of India to share its experiences in parliamentary democracy and extend
full support to consolidate the gains attained through the democratic process in Maldives. The two sides agreed to promote more cooperation between the Parliaments of both countries. Both sides also agreed to promote and facilitate cooperation between their
respective institutions.

Memorandum of Understanding on renovation of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Maldives;

Programme of Cooperation in the field of Culture for the years 2012-2015.

The two leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. In furtherance of the shared recognition that the security interests of both the countries are interlinked in the region, they
reiterated their assurance that each side would be sensitive to the concerns of the other on the issue and that their respective territories would not be allowed for any activity inimical to the other and by any quarter. It was agreed to enhance bilateral
cooperation on issues of common concern, including piracy, terrorism, organized crime, drugs and human trafficking. It was also agreed to intensify cooperation in the areas of training and capacity building of police and security forces.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region through coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information, capacity building and the development of an effective legal framework
against piracy.

Both the leaders reviewed the various efforts to promote bilateral trade and investment ties and the development of infrastructure in a manner that contributes to sustainable development in both countries. It was agreed to work towards closer economic cooperation
in sectors such as food security, fisheries development, tourism, transportation, information technology, new and renewable energy and communications.

Both sides agreed to undertake measures to strengthen links in the banking and financial sectors, including by improving credit and insurance facilities and assistance in the establishment of development finance institutions. They also agreed to review
institutional arrangements to meet the essential commodities requirements of Maldives.

The President of Maldives thanked the Prime Minister of India for the assistance extended by Government of India, including by way of the US$ 100 million Stand-by Credit Facility extended in 2008 and the full subscription to US$ 100 million Treasury bonds
issued by the Maldives Monetary Authority in 2009. The two leaders welcomed the signing of the US$ 40 million Line of Credit for the construction of housing units that was signed in August 2011.

The two leaders expressed their confidence that the new US$ 100 million Stand-by Credit Facility extended by India would significantly enhance infrastructure and capacities in Maldives. The credit would finance a number of projects identified by Maldives
and imports from India.

The Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh announced financial support to Maldives for several cooperation and developmental projects, including the setting up of the Maldives Police Academy and renovation of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH)
established by Government of India in Male.

Both leaders emphasised the urgent need to improve connectivity between the two countries through the establishment of enabling infrastructure that would promote the exchange of goods and services, information, ideas, culture and people.

It was agreed to enhance connectivity by air and sea, in particular through shipping links and ferry services. In this context, the two leaders directed the concerned officials to expeditiously work towards starting a regular passenger-cum-cargo ferry service
between Cochin (India) and Male (Maldives) and other destinations between Maldives and India. The Prime Minister of India announced that India would undertake a feasibility study on the development of the regional port in Kulduffushi (upper North Province
Maldives) at the earliest. The two leaders also directed that direct flights between Mumbai/Delhi- Male sectors be operationalised at the earliest.

The two leaders welcomed the allocation of lands on reciprocal basis in Male and New Delhi for construction of the new Chancery buildings for the respective High Commissions in each other’s country.

Both leaders agreed that the two sides would harness the advantages of regional and sub-regional transport and connectivity, renewable energy, education, environment and sustainable development to mutual advantage.

The Prime Minister of India congratulated the President of Maldives for successfully hosting the XVII SAARC Summit in Addu City from November 10-11, 2011. Reiterating the importance of SAARC in promoting regional cooperation, the two leaders also agreed
to work together to further strengthen SAARC, including by expanding areas of cooperation, in working closely with the Maldives to revitalize SAARC institutions, and as partners in achieving the full implementation of all existing SAARC projects and Agreements.
In this regard, the President of Maldives appreciated the continued support of the Government of India to Maldives as Chair of SAARC and, in particular, for strengthening the SAARC Coastal Zone Management Center in Male.

Both leaders reiterated the importance of an effective multilateral system, centred on a strong United Nations, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. In this context, they also recognized the need to pursue reform of the main UN bodies, including
the revitalization of the UN General Assembly and expansion of the UN Security Council. The President of Maldives reiterated his country's support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded and reformed UN Security Council.

The two leaders underscored the need for strengthening and reform of multilateral financial institutions and enhancing the voice and participation of developing countries in international economic decision-making.

Both sides agreed that climate change was one of the most important global challenges. They reaffirmed the provisions and principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), including that of common but differentiated responsibilities
and respective capabilities. Noting the substantial voluntary pledges of the developing countries towards mitigation, they stressed the importance of the developed countries agreeing to take on a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012 at
the forthcoming UNFCCC Conference of Parties in Durban end November 2011. It was agreed to develop and implement programmes for environmental protection and respond to the challenges of climate change through adaptation. Both Parties shall collaborate on projects
of mutual interest to preserve common eco-systems, address vulnerability of the Small Island States to Climate Change and strengthen coastal research.

The Prime Minister of India thanked the President of Maldives for the warmth, cordiality and gracious hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation during their stay in Maldives.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh extended an invitation to President Mohamed Nasheed to pay a visit to India. The invitation was accepted and it was agreed that the dates of the visit would be finalised through diplomatic channels.

Male
November 12, 2011

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MEA54005407Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development between India and MaldivesFRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON COOPERATION FOR
DEVELOPMENT BETWEEN
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA
AND
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES

The Government of the Republic of India (hereinafter Government of India) and the Government of the Republic of Maldives (hereinafter Government of Maldives), hereinafter referred to as the ‘Parties’

RECALLING their shared bonds of history, culture and common ethos;

DESIRIOUS of maintaining and deepening their unique relationship based on sovereign equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit;

INSPIRED by an abiding faith in and commitment to democracy, development and peaceful co-existence;

REITERATING their common objective of eradicating poverty, hunger, illiteracy and disease and promoting social justice and inclusive growth;

AFFIRMING their intention to promote comprehensive economic cooperation and develop efficient and enhanced connectivity between their countries:

DESIROUS of promoting cooperation in the areas of health, education, tourism, fisheries development, environment protection, new and renewable energy and economic cooperation;

CONVINCED that cooperation at the bilateral, sub-regional and regional levels will enable the two countries to realise their developmental aspirations, and contribute to peace, prosperity and security in the Indian Ocean Region and South Asia;

HAVE AGREED as under:

ARTICLE 1

To promote trade and investment and development of infrastructure in a manner that contributes to sustainable development in both countries, the Parties will work towards closer economic cooperation in sectors such as food security, fisheries development, tourism,
transportation, information technology, new and renewable energy, communications and any other areas mutually agreed on. They will develop institutional arrangements to meet the essential commodities requirements of Maldives.

The Parties will undertake all measures needed to strengthen links in the banking and financial sectors, including by improving credit and insurance facilities and establishment of development finance institutions.

ARTICLE 2

To enhance connectivity between them by air and sea, in particular through shipping links and ferry services, the Parties will encourage the development of appropriate infrastructure, use of sea and air ports, and standardization of means of transport for bilateral
as well as sub-regional use.

ARTICLE 3

To develop and implement programmes for environmental protection and responding to the challenges of climate change through adaptation, both Parties shall collaborate on projects of mutual interest to preserve their common eco-systems, address vulnerability
of the Maldives and Indian Islands to Climate Change, strengthen coastal research and, as far as practicable, coordinate their response in international fora.

ARTICLE 4

To develop and streamline mechanisms for technical cooperation and exchange of advance information with respect to natural disasters. The Parties shall strengthen training and capacity building initiatives and cooperation between respective disaster management
authorities, with a view to upgrading their response mechanisms.

ARTICLE 5

To cooperate on issues of concern to each other arising from their unique geographical location which include piracy, maritime security, terrorism, organized crime, drugs and human trafficking, the Parties shall strengthen their cooperation to enhance security
in the Indian Ocean Region through coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information, development of effective legal framework and other measures mutually agreed upon. They will intensify their cooperation in the area of training and
capacity building of police and security forces.

ARTICLE 6

To cooperate closely with each other on issues relating to their national interests, the Parties shall work together to create a peaceful environment conducive for inclusive economic growth and development. Neither Party shall allow the use of its territory
for activities harmful to the national security and interest of the other.

ARTICLE 7

To promote scientific and educational cooperation between the two countries, the Parties shall cooperate by means of exchange of data, scientific knowledge, collaborative research, training, pilot projects and in any other manner as may be agreed between the
two Parties.

ARTICLE 8

To promote cultural cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, the Parties will promote greater exchanges between their parliaments, youth, sports, academic, cultural and intellectual bodies. They will undertake measures to simplify rules and procedures for
travel by citizens of both countries.

ARTICLE 9

For effective and smooth implementation of this Agreement, the Parties shall establish a Joint Consultative Commission that shall meet at least once a year.

ARTICLE 10

This Agreement shall come into force on the date of its signing by the two Parties and shall remain in force until terminated by mutual consent. The Agreement may be amended by mutual consent. Either Party may also at any time terminate this Agreement by giving
six months advance written notice to the other Party indicating its intentions to terminate this Agreement. The termination shall take effect after six months of the date of such notice.

Actions taken or agreements reached pursuant to this Agreement shall not be affected by its expiry or termination.

Done in Male on the 12th day of November 2011, in two originals each in English and Hindi Languages, both texts being equally authentic. In case of doubt, the English text shall prevail.

Prime Minister

President

Government of the Republic of

Government of the Republic of

India

Maldives

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MEA540716124Seventeenth SAARC Summit Addu Declaration - “Building Bridges”The President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, His Excellency Mr. Hamid Karzai; the Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina; the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan, His Excellency Lyonchhen Jigmi Yoeser
Thinley; the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh; the President of the Republic of Maldives, His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Nasheed; the Prime Minister of Nepal, His Excellency Dr. Baburam Bhattarai; the Prime Minister of
the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, His Excellency Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani; and the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa met in Addu City, the Maldives, on 10-11 November 2011 for the Seventeenth Summit
of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

Welcoming the theme of the Summit and recognizing the importance of bridging differences, creating better understanding and promoting amity and mutually beneficial and comprehensive cooperation in order to promote effective linkages and connectivity
for greater movement of people, enhanced investment and trade in the region;

Renewing their firm commitment to alleviate poverty and reduce income inequalities within the societies and reaffirming their resolve to improve the quality of life and well-being of their people through people-centered sustainable development;

Recognizing that the full enjoyment of fundamental rights by women and girls is an inalienable, integral and indivisible part of universal human rights and that gender-based violence and discriminatory practices constitute a violation of fundamental
rights;

Mindful of the plurality of cultures and diversities within the region and cognizant of the need to promote inter-cultural harmony through greater contact and interaction between peoples;

Deeply Concerned about the continuing threat of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, transnational organized crimes, especially illegal trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, trafficking in persons and small arms and increased
incidents of maritime piracy in the region; and reiterating their resolve to fight all such menaces;

Conscious of the environmental degradation and particular vulnerabilities of the region to the threat of climate change;

Recognizing the need to further strengthen the institutional mechanisms of SAARC in order to bolster and enhance regional cooperation;

Welcoming the signing of the SAARC Agreement on Rapid Response to Natural Disasters, the SAARC Seed Bank Agreement, the SAARC Agreement on Multilateral Arrangement on Recognition of Conformity Assessment and the SAARC Agreement on Implementation of Regional
Standards;

Recognizing the importance of the full implementation of SAFTA as a measure towards the creation of an enabling economic environment in the region;

Noting the recommendations of the Report of the First Meeting of the South Asia Forum that SAARC needs to move from looking within to accepting the logic of interdependence;

Acknowledging the participation of Observers from Australia, the People‟s Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mauritius, the Union of Myanmar, the United States of America and the European Union at the Seventeenth
Summit;

DO HEREBY DECLARE:

To direct the SAFTA Ministerial Council to intensify efforts to fully and effectively implement SAFTA and the work on reduction in Sensitive Lists as well as early resolution of non-tariff barriers and expediting the process of harmonizing standards and
customs procedures.

To direct the SAARC Finance Ministers to chart a proposal that would allow for greater flow of financial capital and intra-regional long-term investment.

To hold the Twelfth SAARC Trade Fair along with SAARC Travel and Tourism Fair in Kulhudhuffushi, Maldives in 2012; and to develop modalities, by involving the relevant private sector, in promoting the region globally as „Destination South Asia.

To conclude the Regional Railways Agreement and to convene the Expert Group Meeting on the Motor Vehicles Agreement before the next Session of the Council of Ministers; and to direct the early conducting of a demonstration run of a container train (Bangladesh
– India – Nepal).

To direct the Secretary General to ensure completion of the preparatory work on the Indian Ocean Cargo and Passenger Ferry Service, including the Feasibility Study, by the end of 2011, in order to launch the Service.

To ensure timely implementation of the Thimphu Statement on Climate Change.

To direct the conclusion of the Inter-governmental Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation and the Study on the Regional Power Exchange Concept as also the work related to SAARC Market for Electricity.

To make available an appropriate percentage of national income towards the respective countries renewable energy investments, subject to the approval of national arrangements.

To resolve the operational issues related to the SAARC Food Bank by the next Session of the Council of Ministers with a view to ensuring its effective functioning.

To root out terrorism, taking into account its linkages with illegal trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and small arms and to make coordinated and concerted efforts to combat terrorism; and call for an early conclusion of the proposed
UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and completion of the ratification of the SAARC Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters.

To initiate work towards combating maritime piracy in the region.

To direct the convening of an Inter-governmental Expert Group Meeting to discuss the establishment of a regional mechanism to ensure empowerment of women and gender equality in the region, with focus on national legislations, including timely realization
of the MDGs and SDGs.

To direct the finalization of the work on the elaboration of the SAARC Regional Convention on Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children for Prostitution with a view to its adoption by the next Summit.

To formulate an actionable framework to address the common challenge of sanitation and access to safe drinking water in the region.

To expedite the work on mutual recognition of academic and professional degrees and harmonization of academic standards; and establishment of long-term linkages among universities, research institutions and think-tanks in the region.

To direct the South Asia Forum to continue to work towards the development of the "Vision Statement” for South Asia and its future development, including on the goal and elements of a South Asian Economic Union, as may emerge from its subsequent meetings.

To strengthen SAARC mechanisms, including the Secretariat and Regional Centres, through an inter-governmental process.

To direct SAARC mechanisms and institutions to develop and implement regional and sub-regional projects, as appropriate, in agreed areas.

To undertake a comprehensive review of all matters relating to SAARC‟s engagement with Observers, including the question of dialogue partnership, before the next Session of the Council of Ministers in 2012.

To mark a SAARC Media Day and, in that context, decide to convene a Regional Conference on Media to consider deepening collaboration in the region.

Addu City (Maldives)
November 11, 2011

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MEA161245437Joint Press Statement by Prime Ministers of India and PakistanPrime Minister of Pakistan (Mr. Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani): Today I had a very good meeting with Hon. Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. We had the earlier meeting in Thimphu, and we decided to resume dialogue, and we are moving in
a positive direction.

Our two Foreign Ministers have met. Our Interior Ministers have met. Our Commerce Ministers have met. Interior Secretaries and Secretaries Defence have also met each other. The Prime Minister and myself have been meeting on the sidelines several times. We have
discussed all issues concerning India and Pakistan. We have very openly discussed all issues including all core issues. We have discussed, the Prime Minister and we have been very open.

The two Foreign Ministers were also called in. They were also briefed so that they are the face of the countries and further whenever they have to have interactions with the media they can give you more details. I can only assure that I have discussed all issues,
all core issues, and also the issues related to water, related to terrorism, related to Sir Creek, related to Siachen, related to trade, related to Kashmir. We have discussed all core issues, and the Prime Minister has always been open and he said that put
all the cards on the table, I am ready to discuss each and every issue. And I think that the next round of the talks would be more constructive, more positive, and will open a new chapter in the history of both the countries.

Thank you very much. Once again I thank the Prime Minister for supporting Pakistan in the Security Council and also for access to the EU market. Thank you very much, Prime Minister.

Prime Minister of India (Dr. Manmohan Singh): Ladies and gentlemen, I have always regarded Prime Minister Gilani as a man of peace. Every time I have met him in the last three years, this belief has been further strengthened.

We have today had a very extensive discussion of relations of our two countries. We started a new process in Thimphu last year. That dialogue process has yielded some positive results. But more needs to be done. And, therefore, we have decided that we will
resume this dialogue with the expectation that all issues which have bedeviled the relations between our two countries will be discussed with all the sincerity that our two countries can bring to bear on these talks.

I have always believed that the destinies of people of India and Pakistan are very closely linked, interlinked that we have wasted lot of time in the past in acrimonious debates. The time has come to write a new chapter in the history of our relationship. And
I am very happy that Prime Minister Gilani fully endorses this view that we have a unique opportunity, and, therefore, the next round of talks should be far more productive, far more result-oriented in bringing the two countries closer to each other than ever
before.

The Prime Minister of Nepal called on the President and the Vice-President of India. Shri S.M. Krishna, Minister of External Affairs, Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Minister of Finance, Shri P. Chidambaram, Minister of Home Affairs, Shri A. K. Antony, Minister
of Defence, Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Leader of Opposition and other Indian dignitaries called on the Prime Minister of Nepal.

The Prime Minister of Nepal had a meeting with the Prime Minister of India followed by delegation-level talks. During the talks, the two Prime Ministers reviewed the state of bilateral relations and exchanged views on ways and means to further expand and
consolidate the close, multi-faceted relations between the two countries. The talks were held in an atmosphere of utmost cordiality and warmth. The Prime Minister of India and Smt. Gursharan Kaur hosted a dinner in honour of the Prime Minister of Nepal and
Mrs. Hisila Yami.

The Prime Minister of Nepal elucidated on the peace process and constitution drafting. He appreciated and expressed thanks to the Government and the people of India for their support and expressed hope to receive India’s goodwill and understanding for Nepal's
peace process and continued cooperation for its socio-economic development. The Prime Minister of Nepal also highlighted his ongoing efforts for consensus building on the peace process of Nepal. The Prime Minister of India expressed full support for efforts
to build consensus on the peace process and constitution drafting to pave way for Nepal's transition to an inclusive, multiparty democracy in Nepal.

The two Prime Ministers directed that all the bilateral institutional mechanisms be revitalized and convened regularly. They directed early meetings of the Joint Ministerial Commission on Water Resources and Home Secretaries.

The Nepalese side assured that the Government of Nepal would take further measures for creating and promoting an investor-friendly and enabling business environment to encourage Indian public and private sector investments in Nepal. The two Prime Ministers
directed the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) of Commerce Secretaries to convene at the earliest with a view to identifying ways and means of further strengthening mutually beneficial trade and investment ties between the two countries and look into all
trade and transit related issues, including trade imbalance, remaining issues of Trade Treaty, Nepal's request for waiver of 4% additional customs duty, issue of fixation of additional one-time lock by Indian customs between Kolkata/Haldia Port and Nepal and
operationalisation of Vishakhapatnam port for Nepal’s trade. With regard to the issue of Duty Refund Procedure (DRP) under the new Treaty of Trade, the Indian side assured that the necessary notification in this regard is expected to be issued shortly.

The two sides directed the relevant officials to hold comprehensive review of the Rail Services Agreement at the earliest to enhance cooperation in the field of railways and explore movement of additional stream of wagons to/from Birgunj ICD in Nepal. The
two sides agreed to expeditiously complete procedural requirements for operationalisation of rail transit facility through Rohanpur-Singhabad and transit between Vishakhapatnam and Nepal.

In response to Nepal's request for increase in the quantum of electricity export to 200 MW to cope with the power deficit during the dry season, the Indian side conveyed readiness to supply maximum electricity possible on existing transmission lines and
suggested that technical experts of the two countries should meet to explore the options available for enhancing electricity trade between India and Nepal. With reference to the draft MOU on cross-border interconnection for electric power trade, the Indian
side conveyed that it would expeditiously examine the draft.

The two sides reiterated that the open border between Nepal and India has greatly facilitated exchanges among the peoples of both countries, and that it is equally important to manage the border effectively and efficiently to control cross-border criminal
activities. The two sides discussed security concerns related to the open border between the two countries. The Nepalese side assured that it would not allow its territory to be used for any activity against India and the Indian side also gave the same assurance
to the Nepalese side.

The two Prime Ministers committed to extend all necessary support to facilitate expeditious completion of construction of roads, rail links and the Integrated Check Posts in the India-Nepal border areas.

The Nepalese side requested the Government of India to allow three additional inbound air routes from Janakpur, Bhairahawa and Nepalgunj in view of increased air traffic to and from Nepal and for facilitating international air service from the regional
airports of Nepal in cost effective manner. The Indian side proposed a meeting of the civil aviation authorities of Nepal and India to discuss and address various issues in this sector.

The Prime Minister of Nepal requested the Prime Minister of India for India's assistance in implementing priority development projects in Nepal. The Indian side indicated willingness to favorably consider priority development projects in various sectors
as requested by Nepal and suggested that these may be reviewed and considered in detail at a meeting of the Joint Commission at the earliest.

The Prime Minister of India offered to increase the ITEC slots for Nepal to 200 every year.

In presence of the two Prime Ministers, the Agreement on Promotion and Protection of Investments, Agreement for dollar credit line of US$ 250 million between Government of Nepal and Export-Import Bank of India and Memorandum of Understanding regarding Indian
grant assistance of ` 1.875 crore for the goitre control programme in Nepal were signed.

The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the two sides have considered and reached agreement on the text of the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and committed to sign the DTAA at the earliest possible on completion of the respective
legal procedures.

The two sides expressed concern at the human suffering and loss of lives and property caused by floods and inundation at the border areas during the monsoon and agreed to strengthen coordination and consultation to deal with the problem. They agreed that
the Joint Ministerial Commission and Joint Commission on Water Resources should convene at the earliest and discuss the current pressing issues and identify the measures for immediate correction.

The two sides agreed to further promote exchange of Parliamentarians.

The two sides proposed establishment of an Eminent Persons Group to look into the totality of India-Nepal relations and suggest measures to further expand and consolidate the close, multi-faceted relations between the two countries. The modalities of the
proposed Group would be worked out through mutual consultation at the earliest.

Both sides noted that the multi faceted and deep rooted relationships between the two countries needed further consolidation and expansion in a forward looking manner to better reflect the current realities.

It was in this broader context that the two Prime Ministers agreed to review, adjust and update the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship and other agreements,

while giving due recognition to the special features of the bilateral relationship. A High-Level Committee at the level of Foreign Secretaries will be set up for this purpose.

The Prime Minister of Nepal addressed a business luncheon meeting jointly organised by ASSOCHAM, CII and FICCI and attended a programme at the Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The Prime Minister of Nepal also visited Dehradun and visited the State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarkhand in Haridwar. The Hon’ble Governor of Uttarkhand hosted a lunch in honour of the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister of Nepal renewed the invitation to the Prime Minister of India to pay an official visit to Nepal at an early date. The Prime Minister of India accepted it with pleasure. The dates of the visit will be decided through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
October 23, 2011
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MEA52315235Fact Sheet on MOU/Agreements signed during the visit of PM of Nepal

Memorandum of Understanding between Government of The Republic of India and Government of Nepal regarding Indian grant assistance for the Goitre Control Programme in Nepal

A Memorandum of Understanding between Government of The Republic of India and Government of Nepal regarding Indian grant assistance for the Goitre Control Programme in Nepal was signed today (October 21, 2011). Foreign Secretary Shri Ranjan Mathai signed the
Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of Government of India and Mr. Mr. Purushottam Ojha, Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Supply, Government of Nepal signed the agreement on behalf of Government of Nepal.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding, Government of India will provide ` 1.875 Crores (Nepali Rs.3 Crores) to Government of Nepal for the control of Goitre and other Iodine Deficiency Diseases in Nepal under the heads of Re-iodisation Subsidy, Packing Subsidy,
Transportation Subsidy and Advocacy Subsidy. The Government of Nepal shall procure iodised granular salt from India for distribution in various parts of Nepal focusing on 22 districts categorized by Nepal as remote and inaccessible. The implementation of the
Programme will be monitored by a Programme Monitoring Team of four members, consisting of two representatives of Government of India and two representatives of Government of Nepal. During the period 1973-2010, Government of India has provided grant assistance
of ` 41 Crores to Government of Nepal for the control of Goitre and other iodine deficiency disorders in Nepal. Iodine Deficiency Diseases are a major health problem and it is hoped that this assistance will help reduce incidence of Goitre and other Iodine
Deficiency Diseases in Nepal.

Dollar Credit Line Agreement between Government of Nepal and Export-Import Bank of India

A US$ 250 million Dollar Credit Line Agreement between Government of Nepal and Export-Import Bank of India was signed today (October 21, 2011). Chairman and Managing Director of Export-Import Bank of India, Shri T.C.A. Ranganathan and signed the Agreement on
behalf of Export-Import Bank of India and Shri Lal Shankar Ghimire, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance signed the Agreement on behalf of Government of Nepal.

The credit line will be used to finance infrastructure projects such as highways, airports, bridges, irrigation, roads, railways and hydropower projects and carry a concessional rate of interest of 1.75% p.a., with repayment period of 20 years, inclusive of
5 years moratorium.

It may be recalled that during the visit of the President of Nepal, H.E. Dr. Ram Baran Yadav in February 2010, Government of India has agreed to extend the line of credit of US$ 250 million from EXIM Bank of India to the Government of Nepal on similar terms
and conditions as the earlier Line of Credit of US $ 100 Million extended to Nepal.

Agreement between the Government of Nepal and the Government of India for the Promotion and Protection of Investments

A Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Federal Republic of Nepal was signed today. Hon’ble Finance Minister has signed the agreement on behalf of India and Mr. Anil
Kumar Jha, Minister for Industry on behalf of Government of Nepal.

The Agreement seeks to promote and protect investments from either country in the territory of the other country with the ultimate objective of increasing bilateral investment flow. The agreement requires each country to encourage and create favourable conditions
for investors of the other country to make investments it its territory and to admit investments in accordance with its laws.

The term investment includes every kind of asset including intellectual property rights in accordance with laws and regulations of the country in which the investment is made. Principles of Most Favoured Nation Treatment and National Treatment (NT) have been
asserted in the agreement. Investments from either country in the territory of the other country are to be accorded NT and MFN treatment which means that the investment shall be provided treatment which shall not be less favourable than that provided by the
country to investments of its own investors or investors from any other country. Besides, investors are to be provided MFN treatment in respect of returns on the investment.

Provisions have also been made in the agreement for grant of compensation to the investors whose investments suffer losses owing to war, armed conflict, a state of national emergency, etc. and such investors shall be accorded treatment by the host country,
no less than the treatment accorded to its owns investors or investors of any third state.

The Agreement provides that nationalisation or expropriation of investments shall not be resorted to except in public interest and in accordance with law on a non-discriminatory basis and against fair and equitable compensation. The agreement also provides
for free repatriation of funds of an investor of either country.

The agreement provides elaborate dispute resolution mechanism to guide settlement of disputes between and investor and a host Government as well as between the two Governments. Dispute resolution mechanism includes resource to negotiations, conciliation and
international arbitration.

The Agreement shall remain in force for a period of ten years. Thereafter, it shall be deemed to have been automatically extended unless either Contracting Party gives to the other Contracting Party a written notice. With respect to investments made prior to
the date of termination of the Agreement, the provisions of the Agreement shall continue to be effective for a further period of ten years from the date of its termination.

It is hoped that the Agreement would serve as a catalyst in boosting investment flows between the two countries.

New Delhi
October 21, 2011
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MEA52355295Agreements signed during the visit of PM of Nepal

Name of MOU/Agreement

Nepalese Signatory

Indian Signatory

Agreement between the two Governments
for the Promotion and Protection of Investments

H.E. Mr. Anil Kumar Jha
Minister for Industry

Shri Pranab Mukherjee
Minister of Finance

MOU between the two Governments regarding
Indian Grant Assistance for Goitre Control Programme in Nepal

Mr. Purushottam Ojha
Secretary
Ministry of Commerce & Supply

Shri Ranjan Mathai
Foreign Sceretary

Dollar Credit Line Agreement between Govt.
of Nepal and Export-Import Bank of India

Mr. Lal Shanker Ghimire
Joint Sceretary
Ministry of Finance

Shri TCA Rangathan
Executive Director EXIM Bank

New Delhi
October 21, 2011
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MEA52955304India-France Joint Statement on Progress in “India-France: Partnership for the Future”Joint Statement by Foreign Ministers of India and France on Progress in "India-France: Partnership for the Future”

The External Affairs Minister of the Republic of India, Shri S.M. Krishna and the Senior Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of the French Republic Mr. Alain Juppé met in New Delhi on 20 October 2011 and reviewed the progress on the implementation of
the Joint Declaration on bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest and importance "India-France: Partnership for the Future” adopted by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President Nicolas Sarkozy on December 6, 2010.

Reaffirming that the India-France Strategic Partnership has been steadily strengthening and widening in scope, they agreed on a roadmap for its further development.

Bilateral

Trade and Economic Cooperation

The two Ministers recalled the target set in December 2010 of increasing bilateral trade to 12 billion by 2012 and reiterated their commitment to achieving it. They also welcomed the increase in foreign direct investment flows in both directions and agreed
to address the genuine concerns of investors.

India and France have identified energy efficiency, renewable energy, preservation of biodiversity, urban services and infrastructure as promising fields of cooperation. To that end, Agence Française de Développement financing could be of relevance.

Space co-operation

Minister Krishna and Minister Juppé welcomed the successful launch of Megha-Tropiques satellite, a joint contribution to the global scientific community engaged in research on climate and weather systems. The forthcoming launch of SARAL, a joint satellite
to study sea surface altitude would be another milestone in space cooperation. India and France encouraged Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the French National Space Agency (CNES) to pursue further cooperation in Earth System Science and Climate
within the framework of the MoU signed in December 2010 and to explore new fields of cooperation in the future.

Defence Cooperation

India and France reaffirmed their continued interest in enhancing bilateral cooperation in Defence. They welcomed the success of the first joint exercise between the two Armies (Shakti, ongoing in October 2011), as also the exercises between their Navies (Varuna
in January 2011) and Air Forces (Garuda in 2010).

The two countries welcomed the finalisation of the project for modernisation of Indian Air Force’s Mirage 2000 aircraft and noted ongoing efforts to finalise joint defence research and development programmes, namely the SRSAM and Kaveri programmes. They reiterated
their desire to cooperate in other high technology programmes and projects in the defence sector in the future.

Both countries reaffirmed their interest in intensifying their cooperation in combating piracy in the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia and other areas.

Civil Nuclear Cooperation

India and France agreed to an early entry into force of the agreement on intellectual property rights on the development of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. They recognized the importance of the highest levels of safety for nuclear power plants. They agreed
to strengthen the cooperation between the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board of India and the Autorité de Sureté Nucléaire of France, and their technical support organizations. They welcomed the progress in the discussions between AREVA and NPCIL, aiming at finalizing
the contract on the construction of two EPR reactors at Jaitapur and look forward to its early implementation. Following India’s enactment of civil nuclear liability legislation, both countries stand ready to further exchange views on this issue so as to ensure
the appropriate framework for the sound development of their cooperation. They look forward to the conclusion of an agreement between ALSTOM, NPCIL and BHEL for supplying the Indian nuclear power program with the most recent technology for manufacturing turbo-generators

Education, Science & Technology

The two Ministers agreed that both Governments will work together to encourage an increase in the flow of students and researchers in both directions. India and France will increase the number and academic level of exchange students. They share a long term
ambition for bilateral cooperation at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Rajasthan. France will finance scholarships for Indian students at the PhD level, depute professors to IIT Rajasthan and substantially contribute to the establishment of Joint
Centres of Excellence/ research laboratories in the next five years. India welcomes this bilateral cooperation project in the higher education sector.

Culture

The two Ministers applauded the success of the cultural festivals Bonjour India and Namaste France. They committed to bolstering exchanges in the fields of culture and heritage. They took note of the success of the International seminar on "Traditions of cultural
liberalism in India & France” organized in Paris in June 2011. They welcomed the future opening of an Indian cultural centre in Paris and looked forward to the upcoming Tagore exhibition in Paris.

Migration and consular issues

India and France welcomed the recent negotiations for a Human Resource Mobility Partnership Agreement where progress was made on the essential aspects. They underlined the positive impact that this agreement will have on a global approach to comprehensive
migration, based on the intensification of business opportunities, exchanges of students, researchers and young professionals and better tackling of irregular migration. They agreed to continue this discussion and resolved to conclude the Agreement as early
as possible. They also agreed to reinforce the dialogue on consular issues.

Regional and global challenges

Afghanistan

India and France reaffirmed their solidarity with Afghanistan. They welcomed the will of the international community to remain committed after the 2014 transition, through bilateral and multilateral fora. Looking ahead to the Istanbul Conference of November
2, they welcomed the commitment of the region to work for a stable, peaceful, democratic and independent Afghanistan, achieved through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process. They called for the continued engagement of the international community and increased
cooperation in the region to work towards a terror-free Afghanistan. This would be in the interest of Afghanistan, the region and the international community at large.

Libya

The two countries support the efforts of the National Transition Council representing the Libyan people as a whole, to establish democratic institutions in a free Libya, to promote human rights, and to rebuild their country after the sufferings they have endured.

Middle East

Minister Krishna and Minister Juppé exchanged views on issues related to the Middle East including the peace process and the situation in Syria and agreed to continue the dialogue at all levels.

EU

Minister Krishna and Minister Juppé reiterated their willingness to participate in the strengthening of the relationship between the European Union and India. They called for a successful India-EU summit in February 2012. They agreed that India and the EU should
continue to work for the early conclusion of the negotiations for a mutually beneficial and balanced Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), which will lead to substantial increase in bilateral trade and investment flows

Terrorism

India and France have endeavoured to jointly fight international terrorism, a common threat. They reiterated their view that terrorism cannot be justified on any grounds or attributed to any root causes. They noted that the bilateral Joint Working Group on
Counterterrorism had met in Paris in June 2011. The two sides agreed to further expand information exchange and enhance counterterrorism cooperation in areas of mutual concern. They resolved to continue their efforts for early adoption of the Comprehensive
Convention on International Terrorism at the UN.

G20

The two Ministers reaffirmed the role of the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation. India fully supports the priorities put on the G20 agenda by the French presidency. India and France reiterated their commitment to working together
in the G20, especially on global issues notably, addressing the Financial crisis, development including infrastructure and food security, social dimension, fight against corruption, innovative financing, commodity price volatility, reform of the international
financial institutions and financial regulatory reforms. They are committed to make the G20 Summit in Cannes a success, and support the adoption of an ambitious action plan for growth.

UN Reform

France reaffirmed its support for India’s accession as a permanent member of an enlarged UN Security Council. India and France are committed to reinforce their consultations at the UN on issues pertaining to international peace and stability.

Non proliferation

The two countries will intensify their cooperation on non-proliferation challenges, and will continue to work towards India’s full membership to the four export control regimes.

Climate Change

The two Ministers stressed their resolve to address the challenges posed by Climate Change, firmly based on the principles and provisions of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), in particular the principle of Equity and Common but Differentiated
Responsibilities. They reaffirmed their commitment to work together for an equitable, balanced and comprehensive outcome to the upcoming 17th Conference of Parties at Durban, South Africa.

The President of the Republic of South Africa, H.E. Mr. Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, and the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, H.E. Ms. Dilma Rousseff (hereinafter referred to
as "the Leaders”) met at the Presidential Guest House, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa, on 18 October 2011 for the 5th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum.

The Leaders noted that the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum brings together three large pluralistic, multi-cultural and multi-racial societies from three continents, i.e. Asia, South America and Africa, as a purely South-South grouping of
like-minded countries committed to inclusive sustainable development, in pursuit of well-being for their peoples. The leaders underscored the importance of the principles, norms and values underpinning the IBSA Dialogue Forum, i.e. participatory democracy,
respect for human rights, and the Rule of Law.

This Summit took place at a critical time globally, when the world economy is faced with serious challenges and where democracy is being sought after in areas such as the Middle East and North Africa. The Leaders highlighted that the basic pillar of IBSA
is the shared vision of the three countries that democracy and development are mutually reinforcing and key to sustainable peace and stability. The Leaders posited that the entrenched democratic values shared by the three countries to the good of their peoples
and are willing to share, if requested, the democratic and inclusive development model of their societies with countries in transition to democracy.

The Leaders acknowledged the importance of the IBSA Dialogue Forum as an instrument to promote coordination on global issues, pertinently during the historic occasion of 2011 when all IBSA Member States serve as non-permanent members of the United Nations
Security Council.

Recalling the Declarations and Communiqués issued during the previous Summits, they took the opportunity to deliberate upon the topics hereunder.

Coordination in Multilateral organisations

The leaders recalled their joint collaboration in the UNSC and other relevant international fora such as the UN Specialised Agencies and groupings such as the G20, G24, WTO, WIPO, BASIC, BRICS, and G77 + China.

Global Governance Reform

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to increase the participation of developing countries in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions. They underscored the need for urgent reform of the United Nations (UN) to render it more democratic
and consistent with the current geopolitical reality. They particularly emphasized that no reform of the United Nations will be complete without a reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC), including an expansion in both the permanent and nonpermanent categories
of its membership, with increased participation of developing countries in both. Such reform is of the utmost importance for the UNSC to reflect the representativeness and legitimacy it needs to face contemporary challenges.

They reiterated that the current international system has to be more reflective of the needs and priorities of developing countries. IBSA, as like-minded countries, will continue to strive to contribute to a new world order whose political, economic and
financial architecture is more inclusive, representative and legitimate.

They underscored the need for urgent reform of the UN Security Council, including an expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of its membership, with increased participation of developing countries in both. They discussed the G4 initiative
of a draft resolution on expansion of the Security Council in both categories and improvement of its working methods. The initiative has been supported by a wide coalition of Member States, from all regional groups of the United Nations. Therefore, they expressed
the view that such strong support should be considered as the basis for further discussion in the ongoing intergovernmental negotiations on the UNSC reform. The need for greater progress in the intergovernmental negotiations was identified as critical to ensure
the required impetus to achieve change. They committed themselves to maintain close cooperation and coordination in order to achieve tangible results during the 66th session of the General Assembly.

They expressed their satisfaction with the positive role that the three IBSA countries have been playing in the maintenance of international peace and security during their current tenure on the Security Council. They committed themselves to continued close
cooperation in order to bring their perspectives into the work and decision-making processes of the UNSC. They reaffirmed their willingness and capacity to take on major responsibilities in the maintenance of international peace and security. In this context,
the IBSA countries declared support for each other’s aspirations for permanent seats in a reformed United Nations Security Council.

The leaders encouraged coalitions of developing countries, devoted to the process of UNSC reform to actively participate in expediting the ongoing intergovernmental negotiations. The Leaders recalled the critical role of the regional organizations in resolving
conflicts. The urged the UNSC to work closely with them.

The Leaders committed themselves to continue to work together in relevant multilateral fora to enhance macro-economic policy coordination for sustainable recovery and continued growth. As members of the G20, IBSA Countries reaffirmed their support for the
Group as the premier forum for international economic cooperation. The Leaders stressed the importance of sustaining long-term capital flows to developing countries to stimulate investment, especially in infrastructure and called upon Multilateral Development
Banks and Regional Development Banks to mobilise more resources and to find ways to expand their lending capacity to developing countries.

The Leaders emphasised the importance of the G20 development agenda, with its focus on the contribution to sustainable growth in developing countries, especially in low income countries. They committed themselves to work together for the continued mainstreaming
of the development agenda of the G20 in the future, with the emphasis on infrastructure, food security and trade

The Leaders called for the early implementation of the targets for the reform of the International Monetary Fund relating to the mandate, representation, scope, governance, responsibility, responsiveness and development orientation of the Fund, in order
to ensure that the Fund is democratic, responsive and accountable. The Leaders reiterated that the governing structure of the Fund should reflect the changed realities of the global economy in the 21st Century, through the increased voice and representation
of emerging economies and developing countries. The Leaders emphasized that reform of the international financial institutions should be carried out in accordance with G20 commitments, with the objective of achieving an equitable distribution of voting power
between developed and developing countries consistent with their participation in the world economy.

The Leaders agreed that the Heads and senior leadership of all international institutions should be appointed through an open, transparent and merit-based process beginning with the selection of the next President of the World Bank in 2012. The Leaders
underscored the importance of strictly adhering to the commitments already agreed in other fora, such as in the G20, including the development agenda.

Peacebuilding Commission (PBC)

Recalling the interdependence between security and development, the leaders reiterated their view that peacekeeping operations have a contribution to make in early peacebuilding activities and in providing an environment conducive to the implementation
of development strategies, as a means to bring immediate peace dividends to afflicted areas and to contribute to a cooperative atmosphere for UN missions. The leaders noted that when considering the deployment of a mission or in evaluating and renewing the
mandate of current missions, the UN Security Council should work in close cooperation with the Peacebuilding Commission, with a view to developing a stronger synergy between the two organs.

Global Financial and Economic Crisis

The Leaders expressed concern at the ongoing deterioration of the global economic scenario, which presents particular challenges for the economic policy and growth prospects of developing and low-income countries. Downside risks have increased substantially
in recent weeks. They stressed the importance of the implementation of a credible plan of macro-economic and financial policies and structural reforms by the Eurozone countries, as a necessary step to prevent further negative shocks to the world economy. They
also highlighted the importance of complementary measures by other key developed economies to boost recovery and help the global economy as a whole. They emphasized that domestic policy responses and structural reforms alone remain insufficient to restore
growth in many developed and developing countries.

The Leaders emphasised the need to increase policy coordination amongst G20 nations, with a view to avert a new recession and to promote a robust recovery in order to ensure strong, sustainable and balanced growth of the global economy in the medium term.
This requires carefully calibrated fiscal consolidation in countries with high debt levels and measures to strengthen domestic demand in countries with large surpluses. The Leaders believe that Brazil, India and South Africa are doing their part to promote
growth while containing inflationary pressures and ensuring fiscal discipline.

The Leaders stressed the importance of implementing the current international commitments of financial regulatory reform, with a view to improving oversight and supervision, towards a more resilient financial system. They also renewed their commitment to
the timely implementation of the Basel III agreement.

The Leaders emphasized the importance of a more stable and resilient International Monetary System and coherent management of capital flows. They highlighted the special responsibility of reserve currency issuers in the field, in the sense that their policies
can have a disproportionate impact on global liquidity and capital flows.

The Social Dimensions of Global Governance

The Leaders reaffirmed that people must come first and should participate in the formulation and implementation of public policies, allowing for fair, equitable and sustainable development. They stressed the need to strengthen social policies and to fight
poverty, unemployment and hunger. They considered this a relevant priority in the context of an increasingly globalized world, as well as in the restructuring the international financial architecture, which directly affects the welfare of people, particularly
of older persons, the youth, the family and persons with disabilities. They reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the MDGs. They highlighted the role of the IBSA Facility for the Alleviation of Hunger and Poverty in the implementation of South-South
cooperation projects.

Achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)

The Leaders noted that 2015 remains a fundamental target date, by which MDGs must be met. The leaders reaffirmed that with just four years to go for the target year, global efforts for attaining the MDGs by 2015 must see accelerated action. In this regard
they called upon developed countries to urgently meet their ODA commitments and to take steps to strengthen global partnership as envisaged in MDG 8 including technology transfer. They further noted that the tepid pace of recovery of the global economy must
not lead to lowering of ambition on the MDGs. The Leaders reaffirmed their efforts to strengthening the global partnership for development, but reiterate the necessity of the expeditious delivery of commitments already made by developed countries in the context
of the Monterrey Consensus and the Doha Declaration on Financing for Development.

The Leaders acknowledged the centrality of the objectives and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, and its pursuit for the advancement of the agenda for sustainable development. In this regard, the United Nations Millennium Declaration, adopted
by the Heads of State and Government at the Millennium Summit on 08 September 2000, which reaffirms the objective of making the Right to Development a reality for everyone, remains complementary to the overall spirit of the Charter of the United Nations.

The Leaders acknowledged that the successful achievement of the MDGs; as encapsulated in the Millennium Declaration, the 2005 World Summit Outcome Document and 2010 High-Level Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly; requires strong political will and commitment;
adequate funding at the national, regional and international levels; and strengthened international cooperation.

The Leaders noted that Sub-Saharan Africa faces peculiar challenges, with respect toward the achievement of the MDGs and has seen less improvement than other developing regions of the world. The African situation remains highly worrisome, particularly in
the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPCs) who are faced with severe poverty and underdevelopment. There is therefore an imperative need for enhanced international cooperation and solidarity, especially under MDG 8,
in order to ensure results.

International Trade (WTO DDR)

The Doha Development Round negotiations were launched on the basis of a mandate that sought to put the interests of developing countries at the centre of the work programme. The current impasse in the negotiations is therefore a source of serious concern.
The distortions caused by the high levels of protection and subsidies in agriculture in the developed countries continue to undermine the development prospect of many developing countries, especially the least developed countries.

The Leaders reiterated their view that the demands of the current negotiations in the Doha Development Round reflect an imbalance in the sense that there is too much accommodation of the sensitivities of developed countries in agriculture, alongside unjust
demands on developing countries to open their markets in the services and industrial sectors. The Leaders expressed concern at initiatives, such as a standstill on tariffs that remove WTO consistent policy space previously negotiated by developing countries.
Developmental agenda remains central to the Doha Round.

To overcome the current impasse and to bring the Round to a successful conclusion, the Leaders reiterated the need to re-affirm the integrity of the mandate that launched the Round, and to build on the convergence already achieved. The Leaders urged the
members of the WTO to reach an agreement on measures of interest to LDCs such as DFQF, Cotton, and services waiver and not to make it conditional to reaching an agreement on market access issues."

Sustainable Development

The Leaders of India and South Africa pledged their support for Brazil’s hosting of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in June 2012 in Rio de Janeiro ("Rio+20 Summit”) to secure renewed political commitment to sustainable development;
to assess progress towards internationally agreed commitments on sustainable development and to address new and emerging challenges. The Leaders acknowledged the relevance of the main themes for the Summit namely the Green Economy in the context of Poverty
Eradication and Sustainable Development and the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development in implementing the Sustainable Development agenda. The Leaders recognised that this conference represents a key opportunity for the international community
to examine and reinforce long term commitments established since the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro and the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) held in Johannesburg.

The Leaders agreed that Rio+20 should renew political commitment to accelerate the implementation of the sustainable development agenda as defined by the Rio Principles and taken forward through the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation (JPoI) in pursuit
of global sustainable development. Recognising that the green economy is a means to sustainable development and poverty eradication, the Leaders stressed the significance of this conference in addressing the emerging sustainable development challenges associated
with the multiple global issues such as food price volatility and food security, energy scarcity and energy access, unsustainable patterns of consumption and production, challenges of rapid urbanization, land degradation and climate change. Therefore, they
stressed that there is no "one-size-fits-all” strategy for sustainable development and that the conference should reinvigorate political commitment towards the implementation of the global sustainable development agenda and work towards assisting developing
countries through additional and new financing, technology transfer and capacity building in their efforts to achieve sustainable development and poverty eradication. Furthermore, the Leaders emphasised the importance of reaching an agreement on an effective
multilateral institutional framework to coordinate, support and enable sustainable development efforts by the international community and relevant stakeholders in a coherent and integrated manner.

Climate Change

South Africa as the host of the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 7th Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties (CMP7) to the Kyoto Protocol, which
will be taking place in Durban from 28 November to 9 December 2011, appreciates the support of India and Brazil towards a successful outcome in Durban. The outcome of Durban should be comprehensive, balanced and ambitious, within the context of sustainable
development and poverty eradication and in accordance with the provisions and principles of the Convention, in particular the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

The Leaders recalled the two-track Bali Road Map decisions and that the Durban Climate Change Conference is the last opportunity to reach an agreement before the end of the 1st commitment period for developed country mitigation commitments under the Kyoto
Protocol. They therefore, called for an agreement on the 2nd commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol as well as the early operationalisation of all the institutions agreed to at COP16/CMP6 in Cancun last year, the Adaptation Committee; the Technology Executive
Committee, the Technology Centre and Network; the Standing Committee on Finance and the Green Climate Fund, which must provide significant means of implementation for immediate action to tackle climate change. In this regard, an appropriate assessment of the
Green Climate Fund should be undertaken during COP17/CMP7, in order to ensure its adequate structure, with a view to timely disbursements to developing countries. Furthermore, there is a need to ensure that accounting of finance by all developed countries
is consistent, complete, comparable, transparent and accurate, and should include detailed and comprehensive information on fast start financial flows provided by developed countries.

The Leaders emphasised the centrality of adaptation and means of implementation as part of a balanced and comprehensive outcome towards the completion of the Bali Road Map. In addition, it is recognised that the extent to which developing countries can
implement their actions is dependent on the extent to which developed countries fulfill their commitment to provide sufficient financing, technological and capacity building support to enable both mitigation and adaptation action.

Biodiversity

The Leaders, also as members of the Group of Like-Minded Mega-diverse Countriesappreciated the initiative of India to host in October 2012, the eleventh Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP11 of CBD) and the sixth
meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties (COP/MOP 6) to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. COP11 of CBD will consider among other, the status of the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable
Sharing of Benefits arising from their Utilization, the implementation of the Strategic Plan 2011-2020 and its progress towards the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and the agreed process to adopt indicators and targets for the Resource Mobilization Strategy.

Global Food Security

The Leaders expressed their concern about the continuing challenges that developing countries are facing regarding food and nutritional security, such as negative consequences of food inflation and food price volatility. They also expressed concern at how
the rising cost of inputs may have regressive impacts on agriculture production and highlighted the need to ensure an increase in agricultural production and productivity, and regulation of commodity markets to meet a growing demand. Regarding the ongoing
famine in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Somalia, the Leaders renewed their appeal for countries to deliver on commitments made to provide funding to address issues of food and nutrition security, especially in support of domestic and regional programmes,
where they exist.

It remains imperative that international collaboration improves to ensure that agricultural productivity be augmented, together with an increase in emergency aid, where needed. The Leaders emphasised the need to support small scale and subsistence agriculture
and greater market access for their products. Simultaneously, the need for increased sharing of intellectual property with developing countries that could increase resilience in addressing agricultural development and sufficient nutritional feeding remains
critical.

The Leaders expressed their support for the UN food based institutions in Rome, and other regional organisations that could increase the capacity of developing countries to deal with the issues of increased agricultural production, food security and nutritional
feeding to ensure that they eradicate extreme poverty and hunger and attain the Millennium Development Goal 1. In this regard the Leaders welcomed the election of Dr JosèGraziano da Silva of Brazil as the first Director-General of the Food and Agriculture
Organisation from the Latin America region The Leaders expressed optimism that under the able leadership of Dr Silva, FAO would continue to grow in strength, particularly looking at its regional programmes, when addressing the specific problems of agriculture
development and food security.

South-South Co-operation

The Leaders undertook to continue to advance the agreed principles underlying South-South Cooperation. The Leaders recalled that South-South cooperation is a common endeavour of peoples and countries of the South, a partnership among equals, and must be
guided by the principles of respect for national sovereignty, national ownership and independence, equality, non-conditionality, non-interference in domestic affairs and mutual benefit.

The Leaders affirmed that South-South cooperation is complementary to, and not a substitute for, North-South Cooperation.It encompasses all the aspects of international relations beyond the traditional economic and technical areas. South-South Cooperation
is an ongoing process which helps developing countries to confront the common challenges they face in successfully promoting their own sustainable development, including through enhancing the capacities of the arrangements and the institutions that promote
such cooperation. In this context, the Leaders reaffirmed the importance of South-South Cooperation being implemented jointly through the IBSA Trust Fund.

Human Rights

The Leaders expressed the imperative need for the international community to recognise and reaffirm the centrality of the Human Rights Council. The Leaders welcomed the recently concluded Outcome of the review of the status, functioning and working methods
of the United Nations Human Rights Council and in this regard reiterated their commitment to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction of any kind as to race, colour, sex, language or religion, political or other
opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. The Leaders recognized that development, peace and security and human rights are interlinked and mutually reinforcing.

The Leaders recalled the political declaration signed by Head of States and Government on World Conference Against Racism, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance (WCAR) + 10, held in New York, on 22 September 2011, and reaffirmed their commitment to implement
the provisions of the outcomes of WCAR and called on all states to commit to the full and effective implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action as the most instructive United Nations document on the global efforts for the eradication of
the scourges of racism and related intolerance.

The Leaders expressed the need for IBSA countries to continue to explore mechanisms to further deepen cooperation in international human rights bodies by developing common initiatives aimed at the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental
freedoms. They also reiterated their commitment to strengthening technical assistance and capacity building for the promotion and protection on human rights, based on their respective experiences and good practices.

Disarmament and Non-Proliferation

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the goal of the complete elimination of all nuclear weapons within a specified timeframe, in a comprehensive, universal, non-discriminatory, verifiable and irreversible manner. They also renewed their support for
efforts related to the disarmament and non-proliferation of other weapons of mass destruction, with a view to expediting their elimination. Brazil and South Africa welcomed India’s engagement with, and interest in, participation in the relevant international
multilateral export control regimes and utilization of their guidelines.
Terrorism

The Leaders condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purposes, as it constitutes one of the most serious to international peace and security.

The Leaders regretted and condemned the recent attacks in India that resulted in loss of lives. The Leaders of Brazil and South Africa offered condolences to the government and people of India. The Leaders in the same vein reiterated their strong condemnation
of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and encouraged cooperation among States and regional organizations in the fight against terrorism. In this regard they emphasized the urgent need to finalize the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism
(CCIT) and called upon all UN member-States to cooperate in resolving outstanding issues with the objective of an expeditious conclusion of negotiations and adoption of this Convention. They reaffirmed the central role of the UN in coordinating the international
action against terrorism within the framework of the UN Charter and in accordance with the international law.

Transnational Organised Crime

The Leaders welcomed the UNGA resolution A/RES/65/230 on the Twelfth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice which endorsed the Salvador Declaration on Comprehensive Strategies for Global Challenges: Crime Prevention and Criminal
Justice Systems and Their Development in a Changing World.

The Leaders also acknowledged that organised crime in all its manifestations is an anathema that poses a great threat to social, economic and moral fiber of societies and has serious potential to undermine good governance. Organised crime further weakens efforts
towards poverty eradication and sustainable development, and the way forward should be regional and international cooperation. The Leaders recognized that women, along with children, are the main victims of human trafficking, particularly for forced labor
and sexual exploitation. The Leaders emphasized the need to coordinate policies among countries and to create effective channels to combat this crime.

The Leaders welcomed the adoption of the 2010 United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons which will contribute to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and children, as well as enhance cooperation and better coordination
of efforts in fighting trafficking in persons.

The Leaders invited Governments to take into consideration the Salvador Declaration when formulating legislation and policy directives and to make all efforts where appropriate to implement the principles contained therein, taking into account the economic,
social, legal and cultural specificities of their respective States.

The Leaders called on Member States of IBSA to collaborate in their fight against the scourge of transnational corganised crime, including cooperation in the area of extradition, mutual legal assistance and criminal justice.

Intellectual Property Rights

The Leaders emphasized the need for an equitable and balanced international system of rules governing intellectual property, allowing among others, for the protection of indigenous knowledge systems against abuse and for preventing the misappropriation
of genetic resources, and associated traditional knowledge.

They emphasized, in this context, the need for a balanced international intellectual property system that contextualizes Intellectual Property Rights in the larger framework of socio-economic development and views them, not as ends in themselves, but as
a means of promoting innovation, growth and development in all countries through calibrated norm-setting, protection and enforcement, while facilitating the effective transfer of technology. To this end, they called for the full implementation of the Development
Agenda of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in all areas of its work. In this context, they welcomed the progress being made towards evolving legally-binding international instrument(s) in WIPO for the effective protection of Genetic Resources,
Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions and urged early adoption of these instruments within the 2012-‘13 biennium. Reaffirming the important role played by Exceptions, Exclusions and Limitations in bringing the necessary balance between
Intellectual Property Rights and public interest, the Leaders took positive note of the ongoing initiatives in WIPO. The leaders noted with appreciation that IBSA countries were already co-coordinating their positions on a number of issues within the framework
of the Development Agenda Group (DAG).

The Leaders warned against attempts at developing new international rules on enforcement of intellectual property rights outside the multilateral fora that may give free rein to systematic abuses in the protection of rights, the building of barriers against
free trade and undermining fundamental civil rights.

Internet Governance

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together towards a people-centered, inclusive and development-oriented Information Society and their agreement to continue to coordinate positions for the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) follow-up
mechanisms, as well as in the other fora and organizations related to the Information Society and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

The Leaders expressed their satisfaction with the ongoing work in this arena; recognized the role of the Internet as a catalyst for economic and social progress; and emphasized its potential to enhance IBSA’s profile as a key global player. The leaders
reaffirmed the IBSA framework agreement for Cooperation on the Information Society adopted on September 13, 2006 and recalled the commitments made in the Geneva Declaration of Principles and the Tunis Agenda with regard to Enhanced Cooperation.

The Leaders highlighted the importance of building a wide political coalition at the international level for making the global internet governance regime as multilateral, democratic and transparent as provided by the WSIS.

In this context, they reiterated the urgent need to operationalise the process of ‘Enhanced Cooperation’ mandated by the Tunis Agenda and recalled, with satisfaction, the fruitful coordination amongst IBSA countries in the deliberations on ‘Enhanced Cooperation’
in the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) and in the UN Secretary-General’s Open Consultations held in December 2010. The leaders took note of the recommendations of the IBSA Workshop on Global Internet Governance convened in Rio
de Janeiro on 1-2 September 2011 and resolved to jointly undertake necessary follow-up action.

The Leaders emphasized Internet Governance as a key strategic area that requires close collaboration and concrete action. In this context, it recommended the establishment of an IBSA Internet Governance and Development Observatory that should be tasked
to monitor developments on global Internet Governance and provide regular updates and analyses from the perspective of developing countries.

Energy

The Leaders acknowledged that each State has a right to define its national energy policy in accordance with its national circumstances and requirements and its relevant international obligations. They also recognized that a diverse portfolio of energy
sources will be needed in future to sustain energy and electricity resources in all regions of the world. In this regard, the availability of energy and access to it are vital to human development, and they recognized that renewable energy, as well as nuclear
power play an important role in the energy mix of countries and also contributes to mitigate the risk of global climate change. The Leaders remain convinced of the importance of encouraging joint research and studies to promote cooperation and information
exchange in the field of development of sustainable and alternative energy.

Health

The Leaders expressed their conviction that universal access to healthcare and affordable medicines is an indispensible step to achieve the ambitious goals adopted by the international community in the fight against communicable and non communicable diseases,
as set forth by the Political Declaration on HIV/AIDS of 2011 and by the Political Declaration on the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable diseases of 2011.

Furthermore, the Leaders recognized that the effective impact of intellectual property on health, access to drugs and prices can best be tackled by enabling developing nations to scale up production of generic medicines through the full use of the flexibilities
provided by the TRIPS agreement, in accordance with the Doha Declaration on TRIPS and Public Health, and, with the support of the World Health Organization, by the Global Strategy on Public Health, Innovation and Intellectual Property, (WHO).

The Leaders welcomed the convening of the World Conference on Social Determinants of Health, to be held from the 19th to the 21st of October 2011, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In this context, the leaders expressed the hope that the - Conference will be able
to agree a common agenda for the implementation of a social determinants of health approach to reduce health inequities.

Gender

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women and the Millennium Declaration and Millennium Development Goals, as well as important contributions
made by IBSA in achieving women’s empowerment and gender equality.

The Leaders welcomed the establishment of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) in leading, coordinating and promoting the accountability of the United Nations system in its work on gender equality and the
empowerment of women, as established under General Assembly resolution 64/289. The Leaders called for adequate funding of the budget of UN Women to enable it to promptly and effectively plan and carry out its mandate.

The Leaders recognised with concern that the situation of women, children and persons with disabilities have been negatively impacted by the world financial and economic crisis, and reaffirmed that eradicating poverty continues to be the greatest global
challenge facing the world today, recognizing its impact beyond the socio economic context.

The Leaders further recognised with concern that Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5 on ending maternal and child mortality will not be achieved by 2015. The Leaders also recognized that the lack of economic empowerment and independence has increased women’s
vulnerability to a range of negative consequences, involving the risk of contracting HIV, malaria, tuberculosis and other poverty related diseases.

In this regard, the Leaders stressed the importance of ensuring women’s right to the highest attainable standards of health and their access to affordable and adequate health care services, including sexual, reproductive and maternal health care and lifesaving
obstetric care. The Leaders called for the strengthening of national health and social infrastructures to reinforce measures to promote women’s access to public health and to address shortages of human resources for health.

The Leaders reaffirmed the full representation and full and equal participation of women in political, social and economic decision making as an essential condition for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls as a critical factor in the eradication
of poverty.

65. The Leaders recognised the significant role women play in economic development and in the eradication of poverty and stressed the need to ensure women’s and girls’ full and equal access to all levels of quality education and training and the promotion of
women’s equal access to full employment and decent work.

The Leaders emphasised the need to create an enabling environment for improving the situation of rural women and ensuring their full participation in the development, implementation and follow-up of socio-economic policies and poverty eradication strategies.

The Leaders emphasised the importance of enhanced cooperation and partnership between their countries as an effective way of working towards women empowerment and gender equality and achieving sustainable development.

Children

The Leaders expressed deep concern that malnutrition and preventable diseases continue to be major obstacles to the realization of rights in early childhood, in particular the right to life and access to health and food, and to the ability of the child
to develop, and also recognizes the need to reduce child mortality and ensure comprehensive child development.

The Leaders reaffirmed that the eradication of poverty is essential to the achievement of all the Millennium Development Goals and to the full realization of the rights of all children, including in early childhood. The Leaders emphasized that the Convention
on the Rights of the Child and its two Optional Protocols and relevant human rights instruments constitutes the standard in the promotion and protection of the rights of the child.

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to eliminate the worst forms of child labour and took note of the ILO Road Map for Achieving the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour by 2016 and welcomed the convening of the Third Global Conference Against
Child Labour to take place in Brazil in 2013.

Persons with Disabilities

The Leaders noted that large number of persons with disabilities live in developing countries, and recognized the importance of international cooperation and its promotion in support of national efforts to mainstream persons with disability in the development
agenda, in particular for developing countries.

The Leaders further noted with concern that the lack of adequate data and information on disability and the situation of persons with disabilities at the national level presents an obstacle to achieving development planning and implementation that is inclusive
of persons with disabilities.

The Leaders affirmed that the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provides an opportunity to strengthen the policies related to the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals, thereby contributing to the realization of a "society
for all” in the 21st Century.

Youth

The Leaders welcomed the convening of the High Level Meeting (HLM) on Youth held at the UN Headquarters in New York from 25- 26 July 2011to address the theme: "Youth: Dialogue and Understanding” and the resultant outcome document. Bearing in mind the global
economic crisis, the Leaders recognized the importance of promoting access to decent work, culture, education and participation in the decision-making processes. The Leaders expressed concern at the high levels of unemployment among youth worldwide and stressed
the need to develop a plan of action aimed at effectively addressing youth unemployment.

REGIONAL ISSUES

AU / NEPAD

The Leaders welcomed the fact that the full integration of the NEPAD Agency into the structures of the AU has been completed and in this way augments the fact that NEPAD remains the AU’s flagship socio-economic programme. The Leaders further welcomed the
fact that Africa’s most important partners are increasingly aligning their programmatic support as well as their projects with NEPAD principles and policies, and wit the decisions taken by NEPAD and AU structures.

IBSA Leaders extended their congratulations on the 10 year anniversary of NEPAD, and acknowledge that NEPAD has played an immense role in mobilizing the African continent to take the lead in the determination of its destiny. The Leaders noted that NEPAD,
through the commitment of African leaders, and with the support of Africa’s key partners, including IBSA, has an important role to play in developing the potential of Africa as a potential new global growth pole.

The Leaders welcomed the progress made by the eight NEPAD Champion states in their endeavours to implement the selected priority cross-border projects that will further integrate the regions of African and will contribute to improving intra-African trade.

The Leaders welcomed the decision of the NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee (HSGOC) that the African private sector needs to be more involved in NEPAD projects and programmes and that African countries should increase the use of their
domestic resources for infrastructure and other projects. The envisaged greater involvement by the African public sector and the African private sector will also serve the purpose of strengthening the already strong links with Africa’s bilateral and multilateral
partners.

The Leaders recognised the positive contribution that India and Brazil play in support of the AU in conjunction with NEPAD. They welcomed the successful conclusion of the 2nd India-Africa Forum Summit in Addis Ababa in May 2011. They also looked forward
to the South America-Africa Summit to take place in Malabo in 2012. The deep-rooted historical relationship that Brazil and India have with Africa has developed into a modern example of South-South Cooperation.

Libya

The Leaders reiterated their governments’ attachment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Libya. They underlined the urgency of ceasing hostilities, consolidating public security and fully restoring basic services throughout the country. The
Leaders called on those concerned to reach an agreement on an inclusive transitional government as soon as possible with a view to promoting national unity, reconciliation, democracy and reconstruction. The Leaders underlined the central role of the United
Nations in post-conflict Libya and the contribution of the African Union can offer in this process. The Leaders expressed IBSA’s willingness to help the Libyan people rebuild their institutions and infrastructure.

Arab-Israel Peace Process

The Leaders welcomed the Palestinian request for full membership at the United Nations, which they support as a key step towards the full realization of the two-state solution and expect a positive response by UNSC to the Palestinian request. The Leaders
called for the urgent resumption of effective and result-oriented negotiations aimed at giving birth to a sovereign, democratic, independent, united and viable Palestinian State, with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting peacefully alongside Israel, within
secure borders. They called for the monitoring of the Quartet’s activities by the UNSC. The Leaders called for an immediate freeze in all settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian Territories and East Jerusalem and lifting the siege against Gaza. The
Leaders reflected on the work of the Quartet as regards to finding a solution to the Palestinian question. They urged the Quartet to report to the UNSC on a regular basis on progress made, or lack thereof.

Syria

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria. They expressed their grave concern at the current situation in Syria and condemned the persistent violence. They expressed their belief that the only solution
to the current crisis is through a Syrian–led all inclusive, transparent, peaceful political process aimed at effectively addressing the legitimate aspirations and concerns of the population and at protecting unarmed civilians. The leaders welcomed IBSA's
joint initiatives on Syria.

They further called for an immediate end to violence and, respect for human rights and international humanitarian law. The Leaders decided to consider the possibility of undertaking a visit to Syria by an IBSA delegation in an effort to expedite the implementation
of reforms promised by the Syrian Government.

Sri Lanka

The Leaders recognized the territorial sovereignty and integrity of Sri Lanka and encouraged the Government of Sri Lanka to implement a fully inclusive political settlement in Sri Lanka, which will be best achieved through broad consultation and dialogue
amongst all the peoples of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the Leaders acknowledged the priority of the timely completion of effective domestic accountability processes, i.e. the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), before any consideration is given
to alternative processes.

Afghanistan

The Leaders emphasized the need for the international community to maintain its commitment to render assistance to the Government and people of Afghanistan in ensuring security and development, whose interdependence is key to stability and sustainable peace.
The only way to lasting peace is through dialogue. The Leaders are of the view that without good governance and a long-term commitment to support economic development; security gains will not be sustainable.

The Leaders expressed support for a democratic, pluralistic and stable Afghanistan. The Leaders acknowledged the need for continued international assistance to further enable the Afghan National Security Forces to guarantee Afghanistan’s sovereignty, independence
and stability. International cooperation is also needed to further strengthen Afghanistan’s capacity to deliver public goods to its citizens. The Leaders also expressed support for the principle of national ownership and leadership in the transition processes.

The Leaders also voiced their firm support to the government of Afghanistan to lead efforts to advance the process of reconciliation and reintegration, which should be inclusive and transparent, and where those reintegrated renounce violence, eschew links
with all terrorist groups and fully respect the National Constitution.

Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan

The Leaders welcomed the new state of the Republic of South Sudan and congratulated the efforts and commitment made by Sudan and South Sudan which led to the conclusion of the processes of the creation of the new state. The Leaders stressed the continued
need for all parties to fully respect the 2005 CPA and the resolution of the outstanding issues in a constructive manner.

The Leaders expressed continued support for both Sudan and South Sudan and indicated that they will continue to support AU efforts regarding peace between the two countries as well as the post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts. They also emphasized
the importance of close cooperation between both countries and the African Union High Level Implementation Panel for Sudan (AUHIP), led by former South African President Thabo Mbeki and pledged continued support for its work.

Somalia

The Leaders welcomed the progress made in the security situation in Mogadishu, while recognizing the persistence of serious challenges, as demonstrated by the terrorist attack that occurred in 4 October, which the Leaders strongly condemned. They called
upon all Somali parties to renounce violence and engage in dialogue and reconciliation.

The Leaders expressed their deep concern about the situation in the Horn of Africa, which has led to a severe humanitarian crisis.

The Leaders welcomed the adoption of the Roadmap during the first Consultative Meeting on Ending the Transition in Somalia, held in Mogadishu, on September 5-6, 2011 and expressed the hope that this will lead to the adoption of a new constitution and general
elections soon thereafter. The Leaders also welcomed the efforts by the international community to alleviate the plight of the internal displaced and Somali refugees in neighbouring countries. The Leaders also called upon the international community to redouble
its efforts to address the problems of piracy and hostage-taking off the coast of Somalia in a comprehensive manner.

Guinea-Bissau

The Leaders welcomed the significant progress made by the Government of Guinea Bissau towards sound economic management, stability and peace consolidation. They stressed the need for the international community to support such progress by fully resuming
its cooperation with the country, in particular with regard to security sector reform and social and economic development.

Haiti

The Leaders reiterated their commitment to the people and the Government of Haiti. They highlighted the positive efforts from the Executive and Legislative powers in Haiti resulting in the ratification of the Prime Minister, which will enable the implementation
of the government program and the ensuing strengthening of recovery and reconstruction efforts. They reaffirmed their full support for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), recognizing that it continues to play a vital role in the maintenance
of security and stability in Haiti. The importance of MINUSTAH’s support for the strengthening of the Haitian State and Haiti’s sustainable development was also underlined.

IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Fund)

The Leaders highlighted the importance of the IBSA Fund as an instrument to alleviate poverty and hunger and a useful vehicle for meaningful South-South cooperation. The Leaders reiterated their commitment to the various new projects that have been approved
and are being implemented under auspices of the IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Trust Fund), i.e. Palestine, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Timor Leste, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Vietnam, Sudan and South Sudan.

Sectoral cooperation and People-to-People Fora

The Leaders noted that IBSA also provides for substantial cross-sector cooperation and promotion of people-to-people cooperation. The Leaders welcomed the collaboration among within the working groups on Agriculture, Environment & Climate Change, Culture,
Defense, Education, Energy, Health, Human Settlements, Information Society, Public Administration, Revenue Administration, Science & Technology, Social Development, Tourism, Trade & Investment, and Transport. Their activities have already resulted in the signing
of a number of Memoranda of Understanding the implementation of which should be prioritised to ensure concrete deliverables on the projects identified for co-operation.

The Leaders noted with appreciation the organisation and the outcome of the IBSA People-to-People For a meetings, i.e. Academic, Business Council, Editors, Intergovernmental Relations and Local Government, Tri Nations Summit on Small Business, and Women.

The Leaders welcomed the signing of the MoU on Mutual Cooperation among the Rio Branco Institute of the Ministry of External Relations of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Foreign Service Institute of the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic
of India and the Diplomatic Academy of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa.

IBSA Satellite Project

Brazil and South Africa welcomed India’s decision conveyed at the Working Group on Science and Technology meeting that India will host the IBSA Satellite Technical Meeting In Bengaluru to discuss (i) modalities of cooperation in space weather, earth observation
and micro satellite; and (ii) translating the IBSA Satellite concept into action.

Final Remarks

As the IBSA Dialogue Forum approaches its first decade of existence, and prepares to take on new challenges, the Leaders instructed the Ministers to conduct a review of the work methods of the IBSA sectoral cooperation mechanisms and the IBSA Facility for
Poverty and Hunger Alleviation.

The month of October marks the celebration of various festivities and auspicious days, including Diwali (the celebration of light) in India. The Leaders wished the Government and the people of India well during these celebrations.

The Leaders expressed their satisfaction with the decision by the Minister of External Affairs of India, H.E. Mr S.M. Krishna, the Minister of External Relations of Brazil, H.E. Antonio de Aguiar Patriota and the Minister of International Relations and
Cooperation, H.E. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane to convene the 8th Meeting of the Trilateral Commission to be hosted by South Africa, in the first half of 2012.

The Leaders welcomed the offer by India to host the 6th IBSA Summit in 2013 on a date to be set through the diplomatic channels.

Pretoria
October 18, 2011
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MEA53215326Joint Statement on the occasion of the State Visit of the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar to India

At the invitation of the President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, U Thein Sein, is paying a State Visit to India from October 12-15, 2011. He is accompanied by his wife Daw Khin Khin Win.
Apart from his official engagements in New Delhi, President U Thein Sein visited places of economic, historical and religious interest, including Bodhgaya, Kushinagar and Varanasi.

In New Delhi, President U Thein Sein was accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan on October 14, 2011. The President of Myanmar will meet with the President of India who will host a banquet in his honour.

The President of Myanmar paid tribute and respect to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

President U Thein Sein had a meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, which was followed by delegation level talks. The meetings and exchanges were held in a warm, cordial and constructive atmosphere, reflecting the close and friendly
relations between the two neighbouring countries and peoples.

The visit represented the first State visit to India following the swearing in of a new Government in Myanmar in March 2011 that marks welcome progress in moving towards an open and democratic framework.

The Prime Minister of India congratulated the President of Myanmar on the transition towards democratic Government and offered all necessary assistance in further strengthening this democratic transition in an inclusive and broad based manner. He welcomed
the ongoing efforts at political, economic and social reform in Myanmar. He also welcomed the convening of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw (National Parliament of Myanmar) and the elected assemblies in all the States and Regions
in Myanmar and expressed readiness to share India's own experiences in evolving parliamentary rules, procedures and practices. In this context it was noted that the Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw (Lower House of Myanmar’s Parliament) has been invited to lead
a delegation to India in December 2011.

The Prime Minister of India and the President of Myanmar reiterated their shared commitment to strengthening and broadening the multifaceted relationship based on shared history, civilizational ties and close religious, linguistic and cultural affinities
and to take it to a new level. While acknowledging the fact that both sides have a responsibility to promote peace, security and stability in the region, they emphasized the need to intensify economic, social and developmental engagement in order to bring
about overall socio-economic betterment and inclusive growth.

With a view to carrying forward the momentum of bilateral exchanges, it was agreed that a meeting of the External Affairs / Foreign Minister of the two countries would be held in New Delhi in early 2012 and the next round of Foreign Office Consultations
would be held in India at mutually convenient dates in 2012.

Both sides reaffirmed their unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. They agreed on enhancing effective cooperation and coordination between the security forces of the two countries in tackling the deadly
menace of insurgency and terrorism, which has caused countless loss of innocent lives. Both sides also underscored the need to strengthen institutional mechanisms for sharing of intelligence to combat the menace of insurgency, arms smuggling and drug trafficking.
In this context, they discussed matters relating to further strengthening of border management mechanisms. The two leaders reiterated the assurance that the territory of either would not be allowed for activities inimical to the other and resolved not to allow
their respective territory to be used for training, sanctuary and other operations by terrorist and insurgent organizations and their operatives.

They welcomed the scheduling of meeting of the Heads of Survey Department of India and Myanmar in November 2011, directed the Heads to jointly work out and implement a schedule for inspection and maintenance of boundary pillars in the open season in 2011-12
in a time bound manner.

Both sides reiterated their common desire to complete the repatriation process of Myanmar fishermen who drifted into Indian maritime territory and who are being looked after by Indian authorities in Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar.

The two sides reviewed the infrastructure development and cooperation projects that are being undertaken in Myanmar with technical and financial assistance from Government of India, including in the field of roads, waterways, power, health, education and
industrial training, telecommunications, and others.

During the visit, the following documents were signed:

Memorandum of Understanding for the Upgradation of the Yangon Children's Hospital and Sittwe General Hospital; and

Programme of Cooperation in Science & Technology for the period of 2012-2015.

The Myanmar side conveyed its gratitude for Lines of Credit amounting to nearly US$ 300 million that had been extended by India, including for the development of railways, transport, power transmission lines, oil refinery, OFC link, etc. The President of
Myanmar welcomed the interest of Indian companies to invest in Myanmar.

The Prime Minister of India announced the extension of a new concessional facility of US$500 million Line of Credit to Myanmar for specific projects, including irrigation projects, each of which will be duly processed and approved in accordance with the
modalities applicable for LDCs for such lines of credit. The President of Myanmar thanked the Prime Minister of India for extending the new credit facility.

The two leaders welcomed the progress made towards enhancing connectivity between the two countries to mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries. They expressed satisfaction at the implementation of the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project,
especially the port development and Inland waterways. It was decided that the road component of the project be started at the earliest, a study be undertaken on the commercial usages of the Kaladan project and necessary agreements to operationalise the route
finalised. It was also decided to open an additional Land Customs Station / border trade point on the India-Myanmar border to allow for the smooth flow of goods generated by the Kaladan Project.

Both sides reiterated their commitment for an early implementation of the Rhi-Tiddim Road Development Project with grant assistance from India.

Reviewing the progress in establishing trilateral connectivity from Moreh in India to Mae Sot in Thailand via Myanmar, it was noted that substantial progress had been achieved in the preparation of a DPR for roads and causeways in Myanmar. Both sides reiterated
the commitment to realize this project.

The two leaders also expressed their commitment to enhance cooperation in the area of Science & Technology. They noted that following the renewal of Science & Technology Agreement in 2010 the Programme of Cooperation in Science & Technology for the period
of 2012-15 was signed during the current visit. The Prime Minister of India announced India's support for training of Myanmar researchers in the areas of mutual interest and twinning of Indian and Myanmar institutions under India-Myanmar Programme of Cooperation
in Science & Technology.

The two sides also expressed their commitment to enhance cooperation in the area of agriculture. They noted that the contract for the supply of agricultural machinery under the US$ 10 million grant assistance from India had been awarded. The Prime Minister
of India announced that India would extend technical and financial support for following new projects:

Setting up an Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education (ACARE) in Yezin; and

Setting up a Rice Bio Park demonstrating the various techniques in rice biomass utilisation in the Integrated Demonstration Farm at Nay Pyi Taw.

The President of Myanmar expressed gratitude for the assistance being extended by the Government of India and emphasised that these institutions could play a vital role in reviving the country's agricultural sector, on which over 70% of the population is dependent.

Recognising the fundamental place of education and human resource development in bringing about overall economic development, and the importance of IT in today's global scenario, the Prime Minister of India announced India’s support for setting up an Information
Technology Institute in Mandalay in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

Welcoming the successful completion of the Industrial Training Centre in Pakokku, with India’s assistance, the two sides expressed satisfaction at the progress on the setting up of another Industrial Training Centre at Myingyan with technical support from
M/s HMTI.

The Myanmar side expressed appreciation for India's assistance in the relief and rehabilitation efforts that followed the severe earthquake that struck North-Eastern Shan State in March 2011. It was noted that the assistance of over US$ 1million from India,
which included assistance in the reconstruction of a high school and 6 primary schools in the affected area, was timely and catered to urgent requirements of the people of the area.

The two sides agreed to promote trade, investment and economic cooperation in a sustainable manner. In this context, the two leaders endorsed the understandings arrived at the 4th meeting of the bilateral Joint Trade Committee that was held in New Delhi
recently, and called for the expeditious implementation of decision taken, including the proposal to establish a Trade and Investment Forum at the business level, expand the basket of goods under border trade, visit of an Indian banking delegation to Myanmar
to facilitate better trade and payment arrangements, etc. The two sides also welcomed the decision to hold the 'Enterprise India' Show in Yangon on November 10-14, 2011 and urged companies on both sides to look seriously at opportunities in the other. The
two sides encouraged business associations in their respective countries to enter into closer ties with their counterparts and also participate in each other's trade fairs.

With a view to promoting border trade, the two sides agreed that meetings between Indian and Myanmar customs, immigration, border chambers of commerce, officials of bank branches at the border, border trade officials (Tamu and Rhi –OSS Team) and Government
officials would take place at Tamu-Moreh and Rhi-Zowkhathar at regular intervals. The business representatives of the Manipur/Sagaing Region and of Mizoram/Chin State will also participate in these meetings.

It was agreed to consider opening up new Border Trading points along the border for the economic upliftment of the people of the area. It was also agreed to consider better functioning of the existing points and to facilitate movement of people and goods
between the two countries.

Recognising the importance of the power sector as a major area of cooperation, the two sides reiterated their commitment to cooperate in the implementation of the Tamanthi and Shwezaye projects on the Chindwin River Basin in Myanmar. They welcomed the successful
completion of the task of updating the DPR on the Tamanthi project by NHPC on the basis of essential additional investigations. They noted that the final updated DPR for Shwezaye would be available by March 2012. They directed the concerned officials on both
sides to finalise plans for implementation of the project within six months.

Both leaders underscored the need for energy security and expressed satisfaction at ongoing bilateral cooperation in the area. They agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of oil and natural gas. In this context, the Myanmar side welcomed the substantial
investments made by Indian companies like GAIL, ESSAR, ONGC and others in off-shore and on-shore blocks, and construction of natural gas pipelines. Myanmar agreed to encourage further investments by Indian companies, both in public and private sector, in the
oil and natural gas sectors.

It was also agreed to extend bilateral cooperation to generation of electricity from renewable energy sources, including solar and wind. In this regard, companies, both in public and private sectors, in India and Myanmar would be encouraged to set up joint
projects.

Appreciating the importance of people-to-people contacts in forging even closer ties, the two sides agreed to take steps to ease the movement of people between India and Myanmar. The Myanmar side thanked India for the facilities and courtesies being extended
to Myanmar pilgrims visiting India.

The two sides agreed on the need for expansion of air connectivity between the two countries, and directed the concerned officials to work towards enhancing air services which could cover more carriers, flights and destinations. It was noted that this would
transform business and cultural ties between the two nations.

Both sides agreed to examine feasibility of establishing railway links, ferry and bus services between the two countries. In this context, both sides agreed to examine commencement of ferry services on the Kolkata-Yangon and Chennai-Yangon routes.

The two leaders agreed for early upgradation of the microwave link between Moreh and Mandalay or other necessary link under the Indian line of Credit, and directed the concerned officials to work towards establishment of the new Optical Fibre link between
Monywa to Rhi-Zawkhatar with Indian assistance.

The Myanmar side expressed gratitude for the training offered by India under the ITEC and TCS schemes to Myanmar scholars and Government officials. The Indian side agreed to Myanmar’s request to increasing the number of training slots offered annually to
Myanmar nationals to 250 from 2012-2013.

Both sides agreed to support joint research projects and exchanges of a historical, archaeological, cultural and educational nature. In this context, it was agreed to enter into a comprehensive Cultural Exchange Programme to promote bilateral exchanges
with special emphasis on the four Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram and cooperation in the fields of art, archaeology, museology, sports, media, etc. Both sides agreed to review the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry
of Religious Affairs, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, the Republic of India, for expeditious implementation. It was agreed that both sides would jointly organise a high level International conference of Buddhist
Philosophy in Myanmar in 2012.

It was noted with satisfaction that two teams of professionals from the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) visited Myanmar and carried out detailed studies on the conservation and restoration of the Ananda Temple in Bagan, Myanmar. It was agreed that restoration
work on the site would start at the earliest based on the report by ASI.

With a view to strengthen diplomatic and consular presence in each other’s countries, it was noted with appreciation that the Myanmar side had agreed that it shall make available the identified plots of land in Nay Pyi Taw, its Capital city, on a lease
in perpetuity, and shall transfer the ownership of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) properties in Yangon in the name of the Government of India on a lease for 60 years extendable further by a block period of 30 years each time, on the same terms,
as long as India maintains its Diplomatic/Consular Mission in Myanmar. With regard to transfer of the ownership of the LIC properties in Yangon, it was agreed in principle that the Government of Myanmar, in exercise of the powers vested in it under the Article
14 of the Transfer of Immovable Property Restriction Law 1987 authorized the LIC to handover the land and building thereon at 545-547 Merchant Street and 654-666 Merchant Street, Yangon. The Government of India agreed to the request of the Government of Myanmar
to facilitate allocation of land in Bodh Gaya for setting up a Buddhist monastery for use of pilgrims and monks from Myanmar.

While discussing international developments, the two sides emphasized the importance of an effective multilateral system, centred on a strong United Nations, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. In this context, they stressed the urgent need to
pursue the reform of the United Nations including the Security Council, to make it more representative, credible and effective. The President of Myanmar reiterated his country’s support for India’s candidature for the permanent membership of the United Nations
Security Council.

The two sides emphasized the importance of close coordination towards the cause of regional cooperation. The Indian leadership offered its good wishes to Myanmar for a successful term as BIMSTEC Chair, including its proposal to host the next BIMSTEC Summit
meeting. The Indian side also offered to deepen its engagement with Myanmar under its "Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) programme”. Myanmar being a natural bridge between the ASEAN and India, the Indian side reiterated its intention of building upon
the commonalities and synergies between the two countries to advance its ‘Look East’ Policy.

The President of Myanmar thanked the President of India for the warm and gracious hospitality extended to him and the members of his delegation during their stay in India.

President U Thein Sein extended invitations to the President and Prime Minister of India to visit Myanmar at a mutually convenient time. The invitations were accepted and it was agreed that the dates of the visits would be decided by mutual consultations
through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
October 14, 2011
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MEA53265341Joint Statement on the occasion of the visit of the President of Vietnam

At the invitation of H.E. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of the Republic of India, H.E. Truong Tan Sang, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and Madame Mai Thi Hanh paid a State visit to India on 11-13 October 2011.

The President was accorded an official ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan in the capital New Delhi on 12th October 2011. The President laid a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. During the visit, President Truong Tan Sang called
on the President of India Smt. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil who hosted a Banquet in his honour. He held talks with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Smt. Meira Kumar, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Shri S.M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister, and Shri A.K. Antony,
Minister of Defence and Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Leader of the Opposition called on the President.

President Truong Tan Sang visited Bangalore and met the Governor of the state of Karnataka. He also visited Mumbai where he met the Governor of the state of Maharashtra. President Sang met leaders of Indian business enterprises in New Delhi and Mumbai.

President Truong Tan Sang and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh also witnessed signing of Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on bilateral cooperation.

President Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh congratulated Viet Nam on the success of the 11th National Congress of the Communisty Party of Vietnam and the elections to the 13th National Assembly. President Truong Tan Sang
highly valued the remarkable achievements made by the State, the Government and people of India in all fields in the course of national development which has increasingly enhanced the role and standing of India in the region and the world.

The leaders of the two countries exchanged views in an atmosphere of warmth,cordiality and mutul trust on all aspects of bilateral cooperation as well as on the regional and international issues of mutual interest. They welcomed the sustained development
of the traditional friendship and strategic partnership between India and Viet Nam. They recalled the glorious contributions of Prime Minsiter Jawaharlal Nehru and President Ho Chi Minh for the development of India-Viet Nam Friendship that had been preserved,
nutured and further developed by generations of leaders and people of the two countries and had gone from strength to strength. Both countries agreed to celebrate 2012 as "the India - Viet Nam Friendship Year” to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment
of the full diplomatic relations (07/01/1972 - 07/01/2012) and the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the strategic partnership (06/07/2007 - 06/07/2012). The Indian side would also organize the "Year of India in Viet Nam” in 2012 with a series of cultural
events including performing arts, film festivals, and other events in various cities across Viet Nam.

Both sides valued and agreed to further enhance high-level visits and meetings between the two countries. The leaders noted that there still remains considerable potential for cooperation and agreed to strongly enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership
between the two countries, based on key pillars of politics, defense, security, economic, cultural and HRD cooperation. Both sides highly appreciated the results of the 14th Meeting of Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation
at the Foreign Minister level, the 5th Political Consultation and the 2nd Strategic Dialogue at the Deputy Foreign Minister level.

The leaders agreed to further deepen the strategic partnership, by adding more concrete programs and projects and broadening it to new areas for cooperation, taking into account the changing political and economic situation both at regional and international
levels. Both sides agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in the areas of politics, economy,trade and investment, finance, science and technology, human resource development, culture, agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture etc., while striving to expand
cooperation into other potential areas such as frontier areas of science and technology, justice, public health, information and communication, tourism, sports, press, and other areas of mutual interest. The two sides noted with satisfaction the establishment
of the India-Viet Nam Business Forum, Advanced Resource Centre in Information and Communications Technologies (ARC-ICT) and the Institute for Indian and South-West Asian Studies under the Viet Nam Academy of Social Sciences. Viet Nam welcomed the announcement
of India to establish a Cultural Centre in Hanoi.

Both sides noted with satisfaction that the two-way trade had increased steadily in the recent years and the trade deficit of the Vietnamese side had declined. President Truong Tan Sang affirmed that Viet Nam would create favourable conditions for Indian
enterprises to invest in the country. Both sides agreed to step up trade and investment linkages, inter-alia by encouraging cooperation between the private sectors. Both sides set a target of US$ 7 billion of bilateral trade by 2015. Both sides welcomed the
entry into force of the India-ASEAN FTA in Goods and agreed to work for the early finalization of the India-ASEAN FTA in Services and Investments.

The two sides welcomed the strengthening of cooperation in the fields of defense and security. They expressed satisfaction at the outcome of the 6th Indo-Viet Nam Security Dialogue at the Deputy Defense Minister level and the establishment of a mechanism
of biennial dialogue on security issues between the Ministry of Home Affairs of India and Ministry of Public Security of Viet Nam and agreed to work towards the early completion of the Indira Gandhi Hi-tech Forensic Laboratory in Ho Chi Minh City. The Vietnamese
side welcomed the offer for training and capacity building of Vietnamese police forces.

Both sides welcomed the signing of the Extradition Treaty, Memorandum of Understanding on India-Viet Nam Frienship Year 2012, Agreement on Cooperation between Petrovietnam and ONGC Videsh Limited, Work Plan for the years 2011-2013 in the fields of agricultural
and fishery research and education, Protocol of Cultural Activites in India-Vietnam Friendship Year 2012, and agreed to expedite negotiations for early signing of documents of cooperation in other fields as had been agreed in the 14th Meeting of the Joint
Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation. The Vietnamese side welcomed the announcement by the Prime Minister of India to double the number of ITEC scholarships from 75 to 150 from the year 2012.

President Truong Tan Sang highly appreciated the support and assistance of the State, the Government and people of India rendered to Viet Nam in the past years, which was a vivid manifestation of the fine traditional relations of friendship and cooperation
between the two countries. The Government of India agreed to extend new Lines of Credit to Viet Nam on favorable terms and conditions for projects in infrastructure, oil and gas, power generation and transmission projects and in other areas as requested by
the Vietnamese side; and agreed to consider earmaking a buyer’s credit.

The leaders affirmed their desire and determination to work together for peace and stability in the region and the world, and agreed to further strengthen cooperation at regional and international fora, especially the ASEAN-India and Mekong-Ganga fora as
well as in EAS, ASEM, ARF, WTO, UN and the Non-aligned Movement. The Vietnamese side reaffirmed its strong support for India’s Look East Policy and the strengthening of ASEAN–India relationship. The Indian side congratulated Viet Nam for it’s success in fulfilling
its role as ASEAN Chair in 2010 and thanked Viet Nam for its support to India’s candidature for permanent membership in an expanded United Nations Security Council and the G4 short draft resolution on reform of UNSC.

The two sides stressed the importance of maintaining peace, stability and of ensuring the safety, security and freedom of navigation in the high seas. The two sides agreed that disputes in the East Sea/South China Sea should be resolved by peaceful means,
without resorting to the threat or use of force by the parties concerned, in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct
of Parties in the South China Sea.

Both sides agreed to step up cooperation in the field of capacity building, technical assistance and information sharing between their respective relevant agencies for ensuring security of sea-lanes, including combating piracy, preventing pollution, conducting
search and rescue, etc. on sea.

Both sides also agreed to closely cooperate to promote dialogue and cooperation within the EAS with the aim of promoting peace, stability, development and prosperity in East Asia.

The two sides strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and resolved to increase cooperation in the common efforts of the international community in preventing this scourge in a comprehensive manner. Both sides agreed to closely cooperate
for an early finalization of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, for which India had presented a draft at the United Nations in 1996.

President Truong Tan Sang and Madame Mai Thi Hanh expressed their gratitude to the State and friendly people of India for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to the President and the Vietnamese delegation during their State visit to the Republic
of India.

New Delhi
October 12, 2011

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MEA53415347Fact Sheet on MoUs/Treaty/Work Plan signed during the visit of President of Vietnam

Extradition Treaty between Republic of India and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.
The signing of the Extradition Treaty provides the legal framework for cooperation and marks the intent of both the countries to cooperate in suppression of crime. The Treaty will ensure the availability of fugitive criminals for trial and those who are convicted
are available for serving sentence.

MoU between the Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and the Government of Republic of India on the "Vietnam India Friendship Year 2012":
The year 2012 marks the 40th Anniversary of establishment of full diplomatic ties and 5th anniversary of establishment of the Strategic Partnership between India and Vietnam. The MoU signed today lays down the activities to be undertaken by the two Governments
to commemorate the twin anniversaries. The activities include publicity in print and visual media, organization of seminars and cultural activities showcasing the cultural heritage of both the countries.

Agreement on Cooperation between Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (Petro Vietnam) and ONGC Videsh Limited (ONGC-VL) in oil and gas sector:
The agreement seeks to develop long term cooperation in oil and gas industry between the two countries. The scope of cooperation includes exchange of information, working visits, promotion of mutual cooperation along the entire hydrocarbon value chain, new
investments and also the setting up of a Joint Coordinating Committee for successful realization of the Agreement.

Work Plan for the Years 2011-2013 between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research of the republic of India and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Government of Socialist republic of Vietnam in the field of Agricultural and
Fishery Research and Education.
The Work Plan is in pursuance of the MoU between Ministry of Agriculture of India and the concerned Ministry of Vietnam. The Work Plan contains details of activities agreed to be undertaken by the two countries during the years 2011-2013 in the field of agriculture
research, animal husbandry, plant biotechnology and fisheries among others. The activities include scientific and technical cooperation, exchange of information, training, etc.

Cultural Exchange Programme between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the Years 2011-2014: The Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) is in pursuance
to the Cultural Agreement which was signed by both the countries in 1976.
The primary aim of the programme is to strengthen the relations of friendship and mutual understanding between both sides. The CEP contains details of activities to be undertaken, that have been agreed upon by both sides. Some of these activities include exchange
of folk traditions, performing arts, participation in film festivals, collaboration between libraries of two countries, exchange of visits and cultural troupes.

Protocol on cultural cooperation between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and ICCR of republic of India:
The year 2012 has also been declared the Vietnam India Friendship Year. This Protocol expresses the intent of both the sides to jointly commemorate the year 2012, which marks the 40th anniversary of establishment of full diplomatic ties between India and Vietnam.

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MEA53475405Agreements signed during the visit of President of Vietnam

Sr. No.

Name of the MOU/agreement

Vietnam Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Treaty of extradition between Republic of India and Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

MR. LE QUY VUONG Deputy Minister of Public Security

Shri S.M. KRISHNA Minister of External Affairs

2.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Government of Republic of India on the "Vietnam India Friendship Year 2012”.

MR. DOAN XUAN HUNG Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs

Shri Sanjay Singh Secretary (East), MEA

3.

Work Plan for the years 2011-2013 between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research of the Republic of India and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Government of Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the field of Agriculture
and Fishery Research And Education

Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Co-operation between the culture Sports & Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Indian Council for Cultural relation of the Republic of India.

MR. HUYNH VINH AL, Vice Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism

SHRI SURESH K. GOEL Director General, ICCR

6.

Memorandum of Understanding on the Cultural Exchange Program between Ministry of Culture of the Republic of India and the Ministry of culture, Sports and Tourism of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the year 2011-2014

MR. HUYNH VINH AL, Vice Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism

SHRI JAWHAR SIRCAR Secretary, Ministry of Culture

New Delhi
October 12, 2011

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MEA54055352Brief notes on two MOUs signed during visit of President of AfghanistanMemorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Development of Hydrocarbons

The bilateral MoU signed between the Indian Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Afghan Ministry of Mines, establishes a cooperative institutional framework to facilitate and enhance, bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector, including oil and gas.
It envisages cooperation in the areas of exploration, production, infrastructure, research & training and promotion of private and public sector investment in development of hydrocarbons including oil and natural gas.

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Mineral Resources Development

The bilateral MoU signed between the Indian and Afghan Ministry of Mines aims at promotion of private and public sector investment in mining and mining-related activities; mineral exploration & exploitation and capacity building in the field of geosciences
and mining in Afghanistan.

New Delhi
October 4, 2011
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MEA53525358Agreements signed during the visit of President of Afghanistan

Sr.No

Name of the Agreement/MOU

Signatory from Afghanistan

Signatory from India

1.

Agreement on Strategic Partnership between India and Afghanistan

H.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India

2.

MoU on Cooperation in the Field of Development of Hydrocarbons

H.E. Mr. Wahidullah Shahrani, Minister of Mines of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

H.E. Mr. Wahidullah Shahrani, Minister of Mines of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Shri Dinsha J. Patel, Minister of State for Mines (Independent Charge), Government of India.

New Delhi
October 4, 2011

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MEA53585383Text of Agreement on Strategic Partnership between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of AfghanistanThe Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, hereinafter referred to as "the Sides",

RECOGNISING the time-tested and friendly relationship between the two countries, underpinned by historical and cultural ties;

EMPHASISING the fundamental and lasting importance of the Treaty of Friendship between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Afghanistan of 4 January 1950, and subsequent Agreements and Joint Statements;

PROCEEDING from a desire to further strengthen their traditional and historical ties to mutual benefit;

DRAWING upon their rich and fruitful tradition of cooperation in various fields since the establishment of their diplomatic relations;

CONVINCED that the further comprehensive development of their bilateral ties would promote progress and prosperity in both states and the region as a whole;

APPRECIATING the significant expansion of bilateral ties between the two countries and, in this context, the sincere and generous assistance that the Republic of India has provided to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan over the past ten years;

SEEKING to impart a long term commitment to their multifaceted bilateral relations and to actively develop them in political, development, economic, trade, scientific, technological, cultural and other fields in the years ahead;

CONFIRMING their adherence to the common ideals of peace, democracy, rule of law, non-violence, human rights and fundamental freedoms;

REAFFIRMING their commitment to international law, including to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter;

Hereby proclaim the establishment of relations of Strategic Partnership, as laid out in the following paragraphs:

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

This Agreement, based on mutual understanding and long term trust between the Sides, envisages the elevation of the multifaceted ties between the two countries to higher levels, both in the bilateral field and in the international arena.

The Strategic Partnership between the Sides is based upon the principles of sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of States, non-interference in their internal affairs, mutual respect and mutual benefit.

The Strategic Partnership between the Sides is not directed against any other State or group of States.

POLITICAL & SECURITY COOPERATION

The Sides agree to engage in close political cooperation and, in this respect, establish a mechanism for regular bilateral political and Foreign Office Consultations. Political consultations will be led by Foreign Ministries of both countries and include
summit level consultations convened at least once a year.

The Sides agree to consult and cooperate at the United Nations and other international, regional and multilateral fora. Such cooperation is to be aimed at influencing decision-making in these fora in the interest of both countries. Cooperation at the UN
and multilateral fora would include:

Joint initiatives on key regional and international issues;

Support for the reform and expansion of the United Nations Security Council, including a permanent seat for India in the Council.

The Sides agree to establish a Strategic Dialogue to provide a framework for cooperation in the area of national security. The Dialogue will be led by NSAs and involve regular consultations with the aim of intensifying mutual efforts towards strengthening
regional peace and security.

Security cooperation between the Sides is intended to help enhance their respective and mutual efforts in the fight against international terrorism, organized crime, illegal trafficking in narcotics, money laundering and so on.

India agrees to assist, as mutually determined, in the training, equipping and capacity building programmes for Afghan National Security Forces.

TRADE & ECONOMIC COOPERATION

The Sides commit to strengthening trade, economic, scientific and technological cooperation, as well as cooperation between other bodies of business and industry representatives, with a view to expanding trade and economic relations.

In the interest of Afghanistan's sustainable development, and furthering economic interdependence between the two countries, the Sides commit to deepening and diversifying cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, rural development, mining, industry,
energy, information technology, communications, transport, including civil aviation, and any other areas that the Sides may agree on.

The Sides agree to take effective measures to create a favourable environment to promote trade and investment. The measures shall include, among others:

Enhancing investment protection;

Simplifying customs and other procedures and promoting the removal of non-tariff barriers, and gradually lowering tariff barriers;

Working towards the creation of air-cargo facilities for promotion of commercial exchanges;

Cooperating in the areas of banking and finance, and improving credit and insurance facilities and;

Enhancing cooperation and coordination at international trade, economic and financial bodies.

To achieve a sustained expansion of bilateral trade and economic ties with a long term perspective, the Sides will establish effective mechanisms for interaction between Indian and Afghan entities. Specific measures will include:

Encouraging contacts between regions/provinces in both countries with a view to promoting trade, economic and cultural cooperation;

Mandating the relevant bodies of both countries to jointly explore the possibilities of regional trading arrangements with third countries;

Further enhancing the quality and international competitiveness of their goods by promoting cooperation between the institutions of quality assurance and standardization, and on new technologies; and

Encouraging greater cooperation between the Chambers of Commerce and Industries of both countries.

Recognizing that regional economic cooperation is vital to the future economic prosperity of individual nations, the Sides agree to cooperate, both bilaterally and through regional organizations in promoting regional economic cooperation. Regional economic
cooperation shall:

Envisage assisting Afghanistan emerge as a trade, transportation and energy hub connecting Central and South Asia and enabling free and more unfettered transport and transit linkages;

Focus on development of regional infrastructure projects;

Help facilitate the integration of the Afghan economy within the South Asian and global economies by opening markets for Afghan and Indian products for mutual benefit; and

Strengthen regional cooperation under SAARC, of which both sides are members.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION

In the interest of Afghanistan's long-term, sustainable development, and building on the existing generous aid programme offered by India to Afghanistan, India commits to continue its assistance to the development and capacity building efforts in Afghanistan.

Cooperation will, among other areas of focus, concentrate on the agriculture, mining and health sectors, reflecting Afghanistan's priorities; and

India further commits to expand ongoing Small Development Projects (SDPs) for grass-root level development in the remote and rural areas.

The Sides agree to establish institutional linkages between their respective governments by encouraging cooperation between Ministries/agencies of the two sides. India offers the experience of its own institutional, administrative, political and economic
systems as references that Afghanistan can study and benefit from in the light of its own needs and realities.

As part of its highly successful annual scholarship programme, and the broader strategy of support to higher education for Afghanistan, India will continue to expand education and training opportunities in India through the ICCR and ITEC scholarships, and
multilateral-funded programmes.

Responding to the requirements of Afghanistan, India will explore avenues to expand scholarships in medical, engineering and management institutes of India; and

The Sides will also encourage and facilitate annual student exchange programmes at the school and university levels.

As part of its capacity building support for the Afghan government, India will continue and expand technical, training and other capacity building support to the various departments in the three branches of government, including the Executive, Judiciary
and the Parliament.

In response to Afghanistan's need to strengthen its administration and governance at national and sub-national levels, India offers its experience of governance at the national, state, district and local body levels, and technical assistance in setting
up a permanent, career-based civil service suitable for Afghan realities.

SOCIAL, CULTURAL, CIVIL SOCIETY & PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE RELATIONS

In pursuit of further expanding the existing people-to-people bonds that exist between the two countries, the Sides envisage greater exchanges between parliament, media, women, youth, sports, academic, cultural, intellectual and religious figures and bodies.

Through the India-Afghanistan Foundation, the Sides will seek to promote social and cultural ties, with a focus on arts, literature, poetry and so on, and further expand the exposure to each others' cultural heritage and achievements.

The Sides will encourage and promote greater exchanges between media organizations in their respective countries, within the framework of an independent and free media.

Both Sides will work for the upliftment of women, their education and rights, and also for the poorer or weaker sections of their societies.

To encourage and expand interaction and legitimate movement of people between the two countries, the Sides agree to simplifying rules and procedures for travel by citizens of both countries. The Sides intend to:

Promote tourist exchanges and cooperation between tourist organizations in both countries; and

Encourage sister-city agreements between the cities/provinces/states of the two countries.

To facilitate legal cases involving nationals of one country in the other, the Sides will work towards agreements on mutual legal assistance in civil and criminal matters.

Both Sides agree to promote cooperation and exchanges in the field of sports.

Both sides agree to share and learn from each others' experience of the values and institutions of democracy, including the sharing, distribution and devolution of powers, relations between the Centre and States/Provinces, electoral reforms etc.

The Sides agree to establish parliament-to-parliament exchanges between the two countries by organizing visits of parliamentary delegations and establishing parliamentary friendship groups in the two countries.

IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISM

This Strategic Partnership would be implemented under the framework of a Partnership Council, which will be headed by the Foreign Ministers of both countries. The Council will convene annual meetings.

The Council will consist of separate Joint Working Groups on Political & Security Consultations, Trade and Economic Cooperation, Capacity Development & Education, and Social, Cultural and Civil Society, involving high level representatives from concerned
Ministries/Authorities.

The existing dialogue mechanisms between the two sides will become part of the Council.

CONCLUSION

The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India go forward in this partnership, re-asserting the fundamental and lasting spirit of the Treaty of Friendship between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Afghanistan of 04 January 1950,
which states: "There shall be everlasting peace and friendship between the two Governments who will further strive to maintain and strengthen the cordial relations existing between the people of their respective countries."

Signed on the 4th October 2011 at New Delhi in four originals, each in Hindi, Pashto, Dari and English languages. However, in case of any discrepancy in the text or difference in interpretation, the English text shall prevail.

(Manmohan Singh)
Prime Minister
of the Republic of India

(Hamid Karzai)
President
of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

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MEA53835100Agreed Minutes of the 1st India-China Strategic Economic DialogueThe 1st India-China Strategic Economic Dialogue (hereinafter referred to as ‘the Dialogue’) was held at Beijing, China on September 26, 2011. The Indian side was led by H.E. Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Republic of India
and the Chinese side was led by H.E. Mr. Zhang Ping, Chairman, National Development and Reform Commission, People’s Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the ‘two sides’).

Based on the consensus reached by the governments of India and China, the establishment of the Dialogue was announced in the India-China Joint Communiqué issued during the visit to India by H.E. Mr. Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic
of China in December 2010.

The two sides had an in-depth and frank exchange of views on the world economic situation, respective domestic macro-economic situations, the goals and implementation of the mid and long-term economic and social development plans of the two countries as well
as their respective industrial, fiscal and monetary policies and agreed to enhance pragmatic cooperation in economic sectors. The two sides agreed that the Dialogue was highly productive and successful.

World Economic Situation

The two sides shared views on the current world economic situation, and agreed that since the beginning of the year, the world economy is picking-up, but with weak momentum. The process of recovery is not firmly established and neither is it balanced. Escalated
risk with respect to sovereign debts in major developed economies; large fluctuations in international financial and commodity markets; and growing global inflation, which is particularly acute in emerging markets have brought about additional uncertainties
to the global economic outlook. In this scenario, India and China must continue to focus their efforts on domestic economic growth, which can provide stability to the world economy.

Respective Domestic Macro-economic Situations

The two sides introduced their respective domestic macro-economic situations, enumerated the challenges encountered in the course of economic development, and expounded on the policies they would adopt in the coming years. They agreed that, though new problems
and issues emerged in the domestic economic operations of the two countries and in the international environment, India and China have continued to maintain sound economic development. The two sides also agreed to strengthen communication on macro-economic
policies, share development experiences and enhance coordination in addressing economic challenges.

Mid and Long-term Development Plans

The two sides introduced the major goals, strategic tasks and implementation framework outlined in the respective mid and long-term social and economic development plans of the two countries. The two sides agreed that India and China face the common task of
advancing reform and promoting the comprehensive, balanced and sustainable development of each country. The formulation and effective implementation of their mid and long-term development plans are of great significance in sustaining rapid and stable economic
and social development in the long run. The two sides will learn from each other and conduct mutually beneficial cooperation in formulating and carrying out their respective mid and long-term development plans.

Improving Investment Environment

The two sides agreed to stay committed to deepening bilateral investment cooperation, further opening markets, and improving the investment environment in India and China so as to lay a solid foundation for pragmatic cooperation between the businesses of the
two countries on the basis of complementarities, mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.

Energy Efficiency and Conservation, and Environmental Protection

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on energy efficiency and conservation as well as on environmental protection and actively develop cooperation in energy matters including in the renewable energy sector in order to promote sustainable development.
Enhanced exchanges in these spheres would be the new engine for greater cooperation between the two sides.

Infrastructure Cooperation

The two sides discussed the current status of infrastructure development in the two countries as well as prospects of cooperation. They agreed to enhance cooperation in these sectors, particularly in the railway sector on the basis of mutual complementarities
and benefit.

Water Use Efficiency

The two sides agreed to enhance communication, encourage bilateral cooperation on water conservation and clean water technologies.

The two sides agreed that the 2nd India-China Strategic Economic Dialogue will be convened in India in 2012. They also agreed that prior to the 2nd Dialogue, there would be a working group meeting to implement the consensus and decisions agreed to by the two
sides at the 1st Strategic Economic Dialogue.

They observed the nature of the historic occasion as the three IBSA countries serving concurrently as non-permanent members in the UN Security Council during the year 2011.

They pledged their continued cooperation to ensure that the voices of these three democracies from the South make a meaningful and unique contribution to global peace and security. They further exchanged views on the current global political, economic and
financial environment, which pose considerable challenges, notably for developing countries. They reiterated that the current international system has to be more reflective of the needs and priorities of developing countries. IBSA, as like-minded countries,
will continue to strive to contribute to a new world order whose political, economic and financial architecture is more inclusive, representative and legitimate.

They underscored the need for urgent reform of the Security Council, including an expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of its membership, with increased participation of developing countries in both. The need for greater progress in
the intergovernmental negotiations on the UNSC reform was identified as critical to ensure the required impetus to achieve change. They committed themselves to maintain close cooperation and coordination to continue to promote initiatives aimed at achieving
tangible results during UNGA66 and thereafter.

They acknowledged the positive role that the three IBSA countries have been playing in the maintenance of international peace and security during their current tenure on the Security Council. They committed themselves to continued close cooperation in order
to bring their perspectives into the work and decision-making processes of the UNSC.

In the context of contributing to sustainable peace and security in countries dealing with post- conflict situations and reconstruction, the IBSA countries recalled the importance of South-South Cooperation, in particular projects carried out through the
IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation (IBSA Trust Fund), among others in Haiti, Palestine, Guinea-Bissau, Burundi and Sierra Leone. Since the announcement of the results of the referendum in the South Sudan on 7 February 2011, IBSA countries are
supporting the reconstruction and development of both the Sudan and South Sudan, through the IBSA Trust Fund.

They reiterated their view that peacekeeping operations have a contribution to make in early peacebuilding activities and in providing an environment conducive to the implementation of development strategies, as a means to bring immediate peace dividends
to afflicted areas and to contribute to a cooperative atmosphere for UN missions.

They also noted that when considering the deployment of a mission or in evaluating and renewing the mandate of current missions, the Security Council should work in close cooperation with the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), with a view to developing a stronger
synergy between the two organs.

The need for the UN to ensure stronger cooperation and coordination with regional representative bodies such as the African Union and its Peace and Security Council was also reiterated.

They stressed that IBSA countries have consistently engaged constructively in deliberations on the UNSC in an effort to find permanent solutions to highly complex issues with emphasis on diplomacy and dialogue. It may be recalled that IBSA Deputy Foreign
Ministers visited Syria as part of a trilateral engagement with the Syrian government to encourage democratic changes and a peaceful resolution to the situation. That initiative reflects values shared by the IBSA countries especially with relation to the promotion
of democracy and human rights and the protection of civilians.

India, Brazil and South Africa committed to resume discussions and coordination on Security Council issues during the IBSA Summit which will be hosted in South Africa on 18 October 2011.

India and Brazil conveyed their best wishes to South Africa as host of the next IBSA Summit, on 18 October 2011.

New York
September 24, 2011
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MEA51035148Ministerial Meeting of the G4 countries (Brazil, Germany, India and Japan) in the margins of the 66th Session of the UN General Assembly

The Minister of External Relations of Brazil, the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, the Minister of External Affairs of India, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan met in New York on 23 September 2011, in the margins of the opening
of the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly, to exchange views on Security Council reform.

Recalling their previous joint statements, in particular the declarations of 24 September 2010 and 11 February 2011, the G4 countries reiterated their common vision of an enlarged Security Council for the 21st century, expanded in both the permanent and
non-permanent categories of membership, taking into consideration the contributions made by countries to the maintenance of international peace and security, as well as the need for increased representation of developing countries in both categories, in order
to better reflect today’s geopolitical realities.

The Ministers discussed the initiative to promote consultations with Member States with regard to a draft resolution on expansion of the Security Council in both categories and improvement of its working methods. The initiative has been supported by a wide
coalition of Member States, from all regional groups of the United Nations. Therefore, the Ministers expressed the view that such strong support should be considered as the basis for further discussion in the ongoing intergovernmental negotiations to create
the momentum needed for real negotiations among Member States on this all-important matter.

The Ministers also welcomed the decision by the General Assembly to immediately continue the process of intergovernmental negotiations in the informal plenary of the 66th Session. They reaffirmed their full support to the negotiations and expressed their
determination to work in close cooperation with other Member States in a spirit of flexibility and press ahead with all the necessary steps to achieve a concrete outcome in the current session of the UN General Assembly. In this regard, the G4 countries look
forward to working closely with H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, President of the 66th session of the General Assembly.

The Ministers once again committed themselves to continue to work together in order to bring about the urgently needed reform of the Security Council.

Antonio de Aguiar Patriota
Minister of External Relations of Brazil

Guido Westerwelle
Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany

S. M. Krishna
Minister of External Affairs of India

Koichiro Gemba
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan

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MEA51485147Joint Statement on the occassion of the visit of the PM of India to Bangladesh

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, paid a State visit to Bangladesh from 6-7 September 2011. He was accompanied by Smt. Gursharan
Kaur.

During the visit, the Prime Minister of India called on H.E. Md. Zillur Rahman, Hon’ble President of Bangladesh. Foreign Minister Dr. Dipu Moni called on the Prime Minister of India. The Leader of the Opposition Begum Khaleda Zia, and President of Jatiya
Party Mr. H.M. Ershad also called on the Prime Minister of India. The meetings and exchanges were marked by warmth and cordiality on both sides.

The Prime Minister of India paid tribute and respect to the memory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Museum in Dhaka. He laid a wreath at the National Martyr’s Mausoleum at Savar as a mark of respect to the memory and contribution of the
great freedom fighters of Bangladesh.

The official talks between Bangladesh and India were held on 6 September 2011 in an extremely warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere reflecting the excellent bilateral relations and friendship that exist between the two countries. The two Prime Ministers
led their respective sides. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hosted a banquet in the honour of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and the accompanying delegation.

During the talks, the two Prime Ministers reiterated the shared faith in and commitment to the values of secularism, democracy and social justice. They recognised that the destinies of the peoples of the two countries were interlinked in their search for
peace, prosperity and stability.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh lauded the steps taken by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina towards strengthening democracy and promoting peace, security and stability in the region. He added that Bangladesh is a high growth economy with promising prospects.

The Prime Minister of India, on behalf of the Government and people of India, conveyed appreciation to the Government of Bangladesh for conferring the Bangladesh Swadhinata Sammanona (Bangladesh Freedom Honour), the highest Award of Bangladesh for foreign
nationals, on former Prime Minister of India, Smt. Indira Gandhi, for her extraordinary contribution to the historic Liberation War of Bangladesh.

The two Prime Ministers noted that India and Bangladesh have entered a new phase in bilateral relations with a pragmatic and practical approach based on sovereignty, equality, friendship, trust and understanding for the mutual benefit of their peoples and
collective prosperity of the region.

They recalled the landmark visit of H.E. Sheikh Hasina to India in January 2010 and noted that, during the visit, the two sides had reached agreement on a set of initiatives that had elevated the bilateral relations to new heights. The two Prime Ministers
noted with satisfaction the recent exchange of high level visits and agreed that these exchanges had helped reach understanding on many of the issues under discussion. They agreed to encourage more such high level interactions between the two sides.

They also welcomed the regular holding of institutional mechanisms for promoting bilateral relations, such as Foreign Office Consultations, Commerce Secretary level talks, Joint River Commission meetings, Home Secretary level talks, BGB-BSF DG level border
conferences as well as meetings of the Joint Working Groups on various issues.

In their desire for the common good, they recognized the need to exploit the synergies between the two countries for further deepening of cooperation and widening of the relationship into newer areas and towards that end, agreed on a number of measures.

The two sides signed the following historic accords:

Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development

Protocol to the Agreement Concerning the Demarcation of the Land Boundary between India and Bangladesh and Related Matters

The following bilateral documents were also signed during the visit:

Addendum to the MoU between India and Bangladesh to Facilitate Overland Transit Traffic between Bangladesh and Nepal

Memorandum of Understanding on Renewable Energy Cooperation

Memorandum of Understanding on Conservation of the Sundarban

Protocol on Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the field of Fisheries

Memorandum of Understanding on Mutual Broadcast of Television Programmes

Memorandum of Understanding between Jawaharlal Nehru University and Dhaka University

Memorandum of Understanding on Academic Cooperation between National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), India and BGMEA Institute of Fashion and Technology (BIFT), Bangladesh.

Both sides welcomed the conclusion of the comprehensive "Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development" that outlines the shared vision for durable and long-term cooperation to achieve mutual peace, prosperity and stability.

Both sides decided to establish a Joint Commission led by the Ministers of Foreign/External Affairs to jointly coordinate and oversee implementation of initiatives as well as to explore newer avenues for cooperation, including progress of activities under
the Framework Agreement.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed that there has been progress on the principles and modalities of interim agreements on sharing of waters of Teesta and Feni Rivers on fair and equitable basis. They directed the concerned officials to work towards concluding
the agreements at the earliest.

The Prime Ministers noted that the Joint Rivers Commission (JRC), Secretary and technical level meetings were discussing various aspects relating to sharing of waters of the Manu, Muhuri, Khowai, Gumti, Dharla and Dudhkumar rivers.

The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction that the following decisions flowing from the Joint Communiqué of January 2010 had been implemented:

Dredging of the river Ichhamati along the common reach between Angrail and Kalanchi bridges has been completed;

The river bank protection works along Mahananda, Karatoa, Nagar, Kulik, Atrai, Dharla, Punarbhaba, Feni, Khowai, Surma etc. are being carried out in phases.

The Prime Minister of India reiterated the assurance that India would not take steps on the Tipaimukh project that would adversely impact Bangladesh.

The Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the level of cooperation between the two countries on security related issues and reaffirmed their unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including insurgency.
They reiterated the assurance that their respective territories would not be allowed for any activity inimical to the other and by any quarter.

They noted with satisfaction the signing of the Coordinated Border Management Plan during the visit of the Home Minister of India to Bangladesh in July 2011. They expressed confidence that it would enhance cooperation between the border guarding forces
of the two countries, and enable them to manage the identified vulnerable areas with a view to preventing criminal activities, illegal movement, acts of violence and loss of lives along the border areas. The Prime Ministers directed the concerned agencies
to implement the Plan immediately. They welcomed the decision to henceforth hold annual consultations at the level of Home Ministers.

The two Prime Ministers underscored the need to conclude an Extradition Treaty between the two countries expeditiously to complete the legal framework for bilateral security cooperation while expressing satisfaction that the Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance
on Criminal Matters, Agreement on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons and Agreement on Combating International Terrorism, Organised Crime and Illicit Drug Trafficking, signed in January 2010, were now in force following their ratification.

The Prime Ministers expressed deep satisfaction at the conclusion of the Protocol to the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement which paves the way for settlement of the long pending land boundary issues including the undemarcated areas, territories under adverse
possession and exchange of enclaves. The historic agreement, which is based on ground realities, would further contribute to amity and harmony in border areas and create a conducive environment for enhanced bilateral cooperation. The two Prime Ministers also
expressed satisfaction at the signing of strip maps by the Plenipotentiaries. They resolved to complete the ratification process and implement the Agreement expeditiously.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed deep appreciation of the Government of Bangladesh for facilitating 24-hour unfettered access to Bangladesh nationals through the Tin Bigha Corridor. She noted that the fulfillment of the long pending promise would
have a significantly positive impact on the lives of the people of Angarpota-Dahagram.

The Prime Ministers agreed to promote trade, investment and economic cooperation in a sustainable manner and facilitate trade by road, rail, inland waterways, shipping and air. Both sides underscored the need to increase trade volumes and address trade
imbalance. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh announced the decision of the Government of India to remove all forty six textile lines which are of interest to Bangladesh from India’s Negative List for LDCs under the provisions of SAFTA, thereby reducing the
applicable duty rate to zero with immediate effect. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina conveyed appreciation for this major step on improved market access extended to Bangladesh aimed at reducing the existing trade imbalance.

The Prime Ministers underscored the importance of harmonization of standards and mutual recognition of certificates for promoting bilateral trade and expressed appreciation for efforts being taken towards this end. The Prime Minister of Bangladesh thanked
the Indian side for undertaking the upgradation of laboratories of the BSTI and for training of the Bangladesh Standards Testing Institute (BSTI) personnel in India. It was agreed that a bilateral cooperation agreement between the Bureau of Indian Standards
(BIS) and the Bangladesh Standards Testing Institute (BSTI) would be concluded at an early date.

Recognizing the need to address factors including non tariff and para tariff barriers and port restrictions that hamper the natural growth of bilateral trade, the Prime Ministers directed concerned officials to identify and remove all barriers to unfettered
bilateral trade.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the opening of Banglabandha-Fulbari Land Port for bilateral trade between Bangladesh and India. They also expressed satisfaction at the Indian initiative to develop seven Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), and noted that this
would facilitate trade between the two countries. They directed the concerned officials to hold the meetings of the Sub-Group on Infrastructure so that necessary infrastructure could be developed at the identified Land Ports / Land Custom Stations (LCS) on
both sides expeditiously.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the inauguration of the border haat in Baliamari (Kurigram)-Kalaichar (West Garo Hills) and the proposed inauguration in Balat (East Khasi Hills)-Dalora (Sunamganj) as a fulfillment of the long standing demand of the local
people of the area. They noted that the resulting economic activity would contribute to the economic upliftment of the people of the area surrounding the border haats. Both sides agreed to open new border haats at mutually agreed locations.

Welcoming the exchange of Instruments of Ratification of the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, the two Prime Ministers reiterated their call for increasing investments including joint ventures in each other’s country. They underscored
the role of the private sector as very important in bringing qualitative and quantitative change in the development process. The Indian Prime Minister appreciated the announcement of the Bangladesh Prime Minister regarding the establishment of a Special Economic
Zone for Indian investments.

Both sides agreed to examine the establishment of new land ports / LCS / immigration points to facilitate trade and movement of people.

The two Prime Ministers noted that both sides had already signed the Standard Operating Procedures allowing movement of trucks carrying goods from Nepal and Bhutan to Land Customs Stations in Bangladesh. It was agreed to work towards concluding Motor Vehicles
Agreement for regulation of Passenger and Cargo traffic.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh thanked the government of Bangladesh for allowing passage of ODC cargo for the Palatana power project in Tripura.

The Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the operationalisation of Ashuganj and Silghat as additional Ports of Call under the bilateral Inland Water Transit and Trade Protocol. He also expressed his appreciation for the successful commencement of trial
run of the bulk cargo for Tripura using multi-modal facilities through Ashuganj port. It was agreed that the construction of an Inland Container Terminal at Ashuganj would be expedited and pending that, the port could be used for movement of bulk cargo immediately
as far as practicable.

Both sides agreed to expedite works for enabling night navigation facilities on the Protocol routes. They agreed to allow movement of containerized cargo by rail and water and to work towards its early operationlisation.

Both the Prime Ministers directed that necessary steps be taken to expedite construction of a bridge over river Feni as per the alignment already agreed between the two sides.

The Prime Ministers directed the concerned officials that the MoU regarding development of railway infrastructure at the border point between Agartala and Akhaura should be concluded and the execution of rail line commenced at the earliest.

Bangladesh Prime Minister expressed her appreciation to the Indian Prime Minister for amendment of the MoU between the Bangladesh and Indian Railways allowing Rohanpur-Singabad as an additional route for both bulk and container cargo for Nepalese rail transit
traffic. Bangladesh side also appreciated the assistance from India for the movement of fertilizers from Bangladesh to Nepal by rail route. They also agreed to re-establish rail connections between Chilahati-Haldibari and Kulaura-Mahishashan in the spirit
of encouraging revival of old linkages and transport routes between the two countries.

The Prime Ministers directed that necessary formalities for the use of Chittagong and Mongla seaports for movement of goods to and from India through water, rail and road should be completed urgently.

Both the Prime Ministers noted that road, rail and waterways were building blocks to an inter-dependent and mutually beneficial relationship among the countries of the region. The establishment of physical infrastructure would promote exchange of goods
and traffic, and lead to the connectivity of services, information, ideas, culture and people.

The two sides welcomed the signing of the MoU for cooperation in the Renewable Energy sector between the two countries, noting that cooperation in this sector was essential to meet the growing energy demands of the two countries and to supplement the conventional
sources.

The two Prime Ministers urged expeditious conclusion of Power Purchase Agreement between BPDB and NTPC for purchase of 250MW power from India by Bangladesh. It was agreed that Bangladesh would procure the additional 250MW of power from the open market in
India utilizing the full capacity of the power transmission line being established through inter-grid connectivity at Bheramara and Behrampur.

The two Prime Ministers noted that BPDB and NTPC were working towards concluding a Joint Venture Agreement for setting up of 1320MW coal based power plant in Bagerhat. They directed the concerned officials to complete all formalities for operationalising
the project expeditiously. They also directed the concerned officials to undertake necessary steps for conducting feasibility reports for the setting up of a similar 1320MW coal based power plant at a suitable location in Chittagong.

Both the Prime Ministers agreed to promote and support joint research projects and exchange of scientific personnel. In this context, the Prime Minister of India conveyed that India would invite from Bangladesh eminent scientists and researchers to participate
in the Indian National Science Congress, and school children to participate in the Annual National Children Science Congress.

The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the programmes orgainsed for the joint celebration to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore. They directed officials of both sides to remain engaged in the joint effort and take
it to a successful conclusion in May 2012. They noted that the joint celebration had enthused the people on both sides to explore the common cultural heritage and linkages and had promoted exchanges not only among Tagore experts, but also a whole range of
artists, singers, dancers, dramatists, poets, writers, actors, etc. which had led to greater understanding among the two sides. It was agreed that the 90th Anniversary of the publication of Bidrohi by Poet Nazrul Islam would be jointly celebrated. Bangladesh
Prime Minister conveyed her intention to set up a Bangladesh Bhaban in Shantiniketan as a resource centre for use of the visiting academicians and researchers from Bangladesh.

Recognizing the urgent need of trained doctors and specialists in the field of healthcare in Bangladesh, the two Prime Ministers agreed to set up a programme for training of Bangladesh doctors in premier Indian medical institutes.

Bangladesh Prime Minister appreciated the concurrence of the Government of India to the opening of a Deputy High Commission of Bangladesh in Mumbai. In addition, both sides agreed to consider further strengthening diplomatic and consular presence in each
other’s countries.

Recognizing the value of television channels as a means to promote cultural exchange and dissemination of information, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of MoU on Mutual Broadcast of Television Programmes between Doordarshan and Bangladesh Television.
Noting that there are no restrictions, they encourgaed private channels to explore opportunities to expand the viewership in each other’s countries.

The two Prime Ministers underscored the need to preserve the memory of freedom fighters by undertaking various initiatives, including observance of anniversaries of their martyrdom. The Indian side informed that it would enhance scholarships to the heirs
of Muktijoddhas from Bangladesh to pursue higher secondary and graduate studies. Bangladesh side requested facilitation for setting up of memorial plaques and visits of family members to the identified graves of freedom fighters buried along the border in
the Indian States of Tripura, Meghalaya, Assam and West Bengal.

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the Indian side in the construction of 2800 core shelters for families affected by the Sidr cyclone and the construction of Theatre and Music Departments of Kalabhaban
in the University of Dhaka.

The Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the utilisation of the US$ 1 billion Line of Credit extended by India and noted that it would significantly enhance infrastructure and capacities in Bangladesh. The credit would finance a number of projects
identified by Bangladesh, including for supply of BG locomotives, tank wagons, passenger coaches and infrastructure projects such as Khulna-Mongla rail line and rail bridges over Titas and Bhairab rivers for strengthening Bangladesh Railways, purchase of buses
for Dhaka city public transportation and dredgers for capital and maintenance dredging of Bangladesh rivers. They directed the concerned officials of both India and Bangladesh to complete all necessary measures for the speedy implementation of the projects
so that the benefits would accrue to the people at an early date.

The Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh announced grant to Bangladesh for several cooperation and developmental projects and other initiatives, including :

New Indian Scholarship to 100 students at graduate, post graduate and Doctoral/ research level;

Setting up of an IT Lab in a model school in each of the 64 districts in Bangladesh;

Setting up of IT centres in Bangladesh Public Administration Training Centre, Military Institute of Science and Technology and Bangladesh Police Academy;

Provision of solar lanterns to 2800 families affected by the Sidr Cyclone.

Recognizing the urgency of protecting and conserving the fragile ecosystem of Sundarban, the world’s largest mangrove forest, the two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the signing of the MoU on Conservation of the Sundarban and a Protocol on the
Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sundarban. They expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the two sides would lead to the sustenance and preservation of this common heritage.

Reiterating the role of SAARC in promoting regional cooperation, they agreed to work together in further strengthening SAARC, including by expanding areas of cooperation, and as partners in achieving the full implementation of all existing SAARC projects
and Agreements.

Both sides reviewed various steps taken to strengthen sub-regional and regional cooperation, including under BIMSTEC and other regional initiatives.

Both Prime Ministers agreed that the two sides would harness advantages of regional and sub-regional cooperation in power, water resources, transport and other forms of connectivity, food security, education, environment and sustainable development to mutual
advantage. They directed relevant authorities of both sides to study and formulate, in consultation with experts of the countries of the region, necessary terms for undertaking joint projects in the field of water resources management and hydro-power.

The two leaders agreed to promote trade in services under the SAARC Agreement on Trade in Services and directed early completion of work for harmonization of education curricula and mutual recognition of degrees between the two countries.

Both Prime Ministers reiterated the importance of an effective multilateral system, centred on a strong United Nations, as a key factor in tackling global challenges. In this context, they also recognized the need to pursue the reform of the main UN bodies,
including the Security Council. The Prime Minister of Bangladesh reiterated her country's support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded and reformed UN Security Council. Both sides noted with satisfaction contributions of both countries
to UN peacekeeping operations.

The two Prime Ministers underscored the need for strengthening and reform of multilateral financial institutions and enhancing the voice and participation of developing countries in international economic decision-making.

Both sides agreed that climate change was one of the most important global challenges. They reaffirmed the provisions and principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), including that of common but differentiated responsibilities.
It was agreed that adaptation programmes for environment protection were essential to combat climate change. They agreed to collaborate on matters of mutual interest to preserve common eco-systems and coordinate their response in international fora. They also
stressed the need to meet the over-riding priority of poverty eradication and sustainable development and agreed to enhance cooperation on issues related to bio-diversity.

The two sides expressed their conviction that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's visit to Bangladesh and signing of historic documents between the two countries marks a watershed in the bilateral relationship between two close and friendly neighbours.

The Prime Minister of India thanked the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the warmth, cordiality and gracious hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation during their stay in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to pay a visit to India. The invitation was accepted and it was agreed that the dates of the visit would be finalised through diplomatic channels.

Dhaka
September 7, 2011]]>16-11-2011 10:31:12MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/5147/Joint+Statement+on+the+occassion+of+the+visit+of+the+PM+of+India+to+Bangladesh
MEA51475141MOU between India and Bangladesh on Conservation of the SundarbanMemorandum of Understanding

Between

the Government of the Republic of India and

the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

on Conservation of the Sundarban

The Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh hereinafter referred to as "Parties”:

Considering that both the Governments are parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity 1992 and are contracting parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands 1971;

Recognizing that the Sundarban of India and Bangladesh represent a single ecosystem divided between the two countries;

Acknowledging that the wildlife sanctuaries of the Sundarban located in both countries is recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site and in Bangladesh as Ramsar site as well;

Have Reached the Following Understanding:

ARTICLE I

Both Parties recognize the need to monitor and conserve the Sundarban, which is home to rich biodiversity consisting of large variety of rare species of flora and fauna, and acts as a vital protective barrier protecting the mainland from flooding, tidal
waves and cyclones.

Article II

Both Parties, with a view to exploiting the potential of the Sundarban for development and alleviation of poverty, agree to undertake, but not limited to, the following endeavors:

explore the possibility of implementing conservation and protection efforts, encourage mangrove regeneration, habitat restoration and rehabilitation programs, which would eventually increase the potential for carbon sequestration;

develop a long term strategy for creating ecotourism opportunities for both countries, which will create synergy and generate greater revenue.

Article III

The Parties are in agreement that the Sundarban ecosystem is greatly influenced by human use and the human beings living around the Sunderban. The Parties will map and delineate these human settlements on respective sides so that a better understanding emerges
of the relationship between human settlements and the ecosystems. The Parties will further develop a management plan that utilizes this information to address issues of livelihood, deprivation by flooding and other climate related disasters, man-animal conflict,
pollution, resource depletion, etc. The Parties will through the management plan, also identify opportunities for livelihood generation that do not adversely affect the Sundarban ecosystem.

Article IV

Both Parties agree that an exercise needs to be conducted to identify and catalogue the diversity of flora and fauna that are found in the Sundarban along with their spatial distribution across the countries of Parties. Through this exercise, Parties will determine
what areas and species are under pressure including those facing threat of endangerment and extinction. The Parties will develop a comprehensive plan to tackle these threats along with a detailed action plan to adapt against perceived threats.

Article V

Both Parties will carry out research to develop a common and shared understanding of the impacts of climate change along with adaptation strategies that can be implemented.

Article VI

The Parties, in order to contribute to strengthening the management of the Sundarban across the two countries, are committed to the advancement of collaboration in the following and other areas:

Share relevant information between the concerned officials, forest and otherwise, of both the countries;

Explore the possibilities of joint research and management projects;

Share technical knowledge with the common goal of conservation and management of biodiversity of Sundarban;

Organize joint tiger estimation at regular intervals;

Execution of patrolling exercises by the Forest and other relevant Officials of both the Parties along the respective borders to prevent poaching or smuggling of derivatives from wild life;

Promote capacity building exercise and exchange visits of Forest Officials of field level in order to better understand and share ideas and problems of management, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation and promotion of sustainable socio-economic
development, and ecotourism;

Exchange personnel for training and promotion of education in forestry, including at the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun financed by the Government of India.

A Working Group will be set up to define activities, responsibilities, time, and resources involved, according to the activities established as per this Memorandum.

Article VII

The Parties further agree that:

Should changes of national policies in either country result in difficulties in the further development and implementation of this Memorandum, both countries will do their utmost to ensure a reconciliation vis-à-vis the difficulties raised.

This Memorandum is non exclusive, allowing both Parties to enter into similar agreements with other countries.

This Memorandum does not constitute any legal obligations for either Party in any international forum and it does not conflict with any other treaty to which either country may be a party to.

Article VIII

The Memorandum may be modified by mutual written consent of the Parties. The period of this Memorandum will be 5 (five) years and shall be extended automatically at the end of each period unless terminated by mutual consent by either Party by serving written
notice 90 (ninety) days prior to the date of termination.

Termination of this Memorandum shall have no effect on other similar agreements or projects entered into by the Parties.

Termination shall not affect the programmes under implementation.

This Memorandum will come into effect on signature and will continue in operation, until terminated by either Party as stated in this Memorandum.

Signed in two originals in Dhaka on the Sixth day of September 2011 in English Language.

For and on behalf of
the Government of
the Republic of
India

For and on behalf of
the Government of the
People’s Republic of
Bangladesh

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MEA51415156MOU between Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India and University of Dhaka, BangladeshMEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN

JAWAHARLAL NEHRU UNIVERSITY, NEW DELHI, INDIA
AND
UNIVERSITY OF DHAKA, BANGLADESH

Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, (hereinafter called JNU) and University of Dhaka (hereinafter called DU) establish hereby a formal understanding of cooperation and friendship which is intended to further the academic objectives of each institution and
to promote better understanding between the faculty and students of JNU and the faculty and students of DU. Under this Memorandum of Understanding, the two institutions will proceed to implement the following endeavors and exchanges of materials and personnel.

Areas of Cooperation

Cooperation shall be carried out, subject to availability of funds and the approval of the competent authority of JNU and DU, through such activities or programmes as:

Exchange of faculty members

Exchange of students

Joint research activities

Participation in seminars and academic meetings

Exchange of academic materials and other information

Special short-term academic programmes

Exchange of Administrative Managers/Coordinators

Joint cultural Programmes

The terms of such mutual cooperation and necessary budget for each specific programme and activity that is implemented under the terms of this MoU shall be mutually discussed and agreed upon in writing by both parties prior to the initiation of the particular
programme or activity and the terms of such programme shall be negotiated on an annual basis. Each university will designate a Liaison Officer to develop and coordinate specific activities or programmes.

Scope of the Cooperation

The areas of cooperation include, subject to mutual consent, any Programme offered at either university as felt desirable and feasible on either side and that both sides feel can contribute to the fostering and development of the cooperative relationships between
the two universities.

The assistance to be provided by each of the contracting parties will be teaching, research, exchange of faculty and students, and staff development, etc. as deemed beneficial by the two institutions.

The cooperation will be focussed on the following fields of study initially;

International Relations

Social Sciences

Language, Literature and Culture Studies

Computer Sciences

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) shall remain in force for a period of three years from the date it is signed by the appropriate officials of the two universities. It may further be extended or amended with the written agreement of both parties. This MoU
may be terminated by either party subject to the delivery of six months advance notice, in writing.

At JNU the office of the Academic Coordinator will oversee the implementation of the MoU. At DU, the Office of the Vice-Chancellor will oversee the implementation of the MoU.

Both parties understand that all financial arrangements will have to be negotiated and will depend on the availability of funds.

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MEA51565189MOU between India and Bangladesh on co-operation in the field of fisheriesMEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA
AND
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF
BANGLADESH
ON CO-OPERATION IN THE FIELD OF
FISHERIES
The Government of the Republic of India represented by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh represented by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, hereinafter referred to as the "Contracting Parties”,

Mindful of the need to strengthen the existing friendly relations between the two countries through development of co-operation in the fields of fisheries and aquaculture and allied activities.

Considering that the advantage to be derived from development of co-operation in fisheries and aquaculture and allied activities;
Have reached the following understanding:

ARTICLE-I

The Contracting Parties shall promote development of co-operation in fisheries and aquaculture and allied activities between the two countries through joint activities, programmes, exchange of scientific materials, information and personnel.

ARTICLE-II

The joint activities will be determined by the Contracting Parties and implemented through mutually agreed procedures.

Such joint activities should be environmentally sound and sustainable and may include the areas of aquaculture germplasm exchange and training in fish stock assessment, post harvest technology, freshwater pearl culture, Hilsa fisheries management, protection
of biological diversity related to fisheries development, fish production, distribution, trade and international protocol on Biosafety.

ARTICLE-III

The Contracting Parties shall jointly promote co-operation within this framework of the activities mentioned in Article II. Biennial Work Plans will be drawn up by mutual agreement between the contracting parties to give effect to the objectives of this MOU.

ARTICLE-IV

A Joint Working Group (JWG) shall be formed to provide guidance, review the progress of activities and to facilitate co-operation under this Memorandum. The Joint Working Group Meeting shall be arranged every year alternately in India and Bangladesh.

Each Contracting Party shall designate an Executive Secretary who shall be responsible for coordinating and monitoring all activities to be carried out under the auspices of this Memorandum. The Executive Secretaries will either meet in person or correspond
with each other to develop a work programme and coordinate administrative details.

ARTICLE-V

Under this Memorandum, the designated coordinating authorities will be the Ministry of Agriculture for the Government of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock for the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

ARTICLE-VI

The Memorandum authorizes the involvement of other interested Government agencies, the scientific and business communities as well as the private sectors of both countries in such co-operation.

ARTICLE-VII

The sending party will bear the costs of travel(s) and the receiving party will provide local hospitality. Activities pursuant to this Memorandum are subject to the availability of funds and personnel and to the laws and regulations of the respective counties
of the parties.

ARTICLE-VIII

The Memorandum shall not in any way affect the commitments of the Contracting Parties under existing bilateral agreements between the two countries.

ARTICLE-IX

The Memorandum shall enter into force upon signature by both parties and shall remain valid for a period of 5(five) years. This MOU may be extended for further period as may be mutually agreed upon. Either of the parties may terminate the MOU by giving at least
6(six) months notice in advance of its intention to terminate the MOU. The termination of this Memorandum shall not affect the validity or duration of any implementing arrangement/project executed and commenced thereunder and the activities in progress shall
continue until completed.

ARTICLE-X

This MOU may be modified or amended by mutual consent.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being duly authorized by their respective Governments, have hereto signed this Memorandum and affixed hereto their seals.

Done at Dhaka on this Sixth day of September, 2011 two originals in English language.

FOR AND ON BEHALF OF

FOR AND ON BEHALF OF

THE GOVERNMENT OF THE

THE GOVERNMENT OF THE

REPUBLIC OF INDIA

THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF
BANGLADESH

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MEA51895201MOU between India and Bangladesh on mutual broadcast of television programmesMemorandum of Understanding
between

Government of the Republic of India
and
Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh
on

Mutual broadcast of Television programmes
The Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh herein after jointly referred as 'Parties';

Desiring to strengthen the friendly relations and co-operation between the broadcasting authorities of two countries:

Have agreed as follows:

Article 1
Programme Exchange

Doordarshan, India and Bangladesh Television (BTV) of National Broadcasting Authority (NBA), will enter into detailed agreement through mutual discussions to make available for mutual broadcast of general programmes. The above would be made available for
broadcast in English, along with scripts so that Bangladesh Television (BTV) of National Broadcasting Authority (NBA) may translate and dub the programmes into Bengali and Doordarshan may translate and dub the programmes in Hindi and other Indian language(s)
for broadcast as they consider appropriate. The time of broadcast shall be decided by the recipients, who may consult each other for determining, as far as practicable, parity in the total time allocated for broadcasting each other's programmes.

Article 2
Live telecast of News Coverage

Doordarshan and BTV of National Broadcasting Authority (NBA) may broadcast live any specific event such as visit of High Dignitaries or any cultural event of bilateral importance through an arrangement of sharing of signals.

Article 3
Education Programmes

Doordarshan and BTV of National Broadcasting Authority (NBA) may also exchange programmes on Education either free of cost or on financial terms agreed between the Parties.

Article 4
Co-production

Both the Parties shall explore the possibility of executing television co-productions, whether to be done in India or in Bangladesh, as per/on terms and topics to be decided.

Article 5
Training and Consultancy Services

Doordarshan and Bangladesh Television (BTV) of National Broadcasting Authority (NBA) shall cooperate in providing training as well as technical advice with a view to enhancing the capacity of their respective training institutions and the quality of the contents
of training. The services so provided may be free or at cost agreed between the Parties.

Article 6
Documentation

The Parties shall keep each other informed of the times, dates, duration and technical characteristics of all re-broadcasts.

Article 7
Term

The conditions of this MoU shall have a term of 5 (five) years if not terminated by one of the Parties. The programmes exchanged prior to termination, whether free or at a price, shall continue to be the property of the recipient for use for the purpose for
which the exchange had been made. This MoU is renewable automatically for similar periods, subject to re-agreement of both Parties.

Article 8
Termination

This MoU may be modified or terminated at any time by joint agreement of the Parties. The MoU may be terminated by either Party with thirty (30) days prior notice in writing to the other Party, provided that the Party's duty to fulfill the mutual obligations
incurred prior to the termination shall survive termination of this MoU.

Article 9
Miscellaneous
Termination

For legal purposes, nothing in this MoU shall be construed as creating a joint venture, an agency relationship or a legal partnership between the Parties.

Article 10
Effectiveness
Termination

This memorandum shall come into effect on the date of the signature set forth below and will remain valid until terminated.

Done at Dhaka on this Sixth day of September, 2011

For the Government of the Republic of India

For The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

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MEA52015208Addendum to MOU between India and Bangladesh to facilitate overland transit traffic between Bangladesh and NepalADDENDUM TO THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN INDIA AND BANGLADESH
TO FACILITATE OVERLAND TRANSIT TRAFFIC BETWEEN
BANGLADESH AND NEPAL
WHEREAS, on August 15, 1978, the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh (hereinafter referred to as "parties") entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate overland transit traffic between Bangladesh
and Nepal (hereinafter referred to as MOU).

WHEREAS, this Memorandum of Understanding remains in full force and effect, and

WHEREAS, the said parties now have agreed to make an addendum to the MOU to add new rail routes for facilitating overland transit traffic between Bangladesh and Nepal.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

For the purpose of mutual benefits of the Parties, Para No. 04 of the MOU is amended and will read as follows :

"Traffic in Transit” to/from Nepal and Bangladesh shall move through Indian territory by rail using Singhabad Railway station in India and Rohanpur Railway station in Bangladesh with their existing facilities. To ensure expeditious and smooth flow of such
movement, necessary infrastructural facilities shall be provided by the two Parties within their respective territories.

The existing rail route through Radhikapur Railway station in India and Birol Railway station in Bangladesh which has been suspended shall be brought into operation by converting Bangladesh portion into broad gauge. In this case, both the routes (proposed
and the existing) shall be used for Nepal Transit Traffic by rail for additional operating convenience

As far as feasible the "Traffic in Transit" to/from Nepal and Bangladesh shall move in full rake loads.

For all "Traffic in Transit "from/to Nepal and Bangladesh, an additional One Time Lock (OTL) will be affixed by Indian customs at the border Land Customs Station (LCS) of entry into India which will be checked at the LCS of exit in India.

The Addendum to MOU shall enter into force from the date of its signing and remain in force till the validity of the MOU.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned duly authorised thereto by their respective Governments have signed this addendum to MOU.

Signed on this Sixth day of September, Two Thousand Eleven at Dhaka in two originals in English Language.

For and on behalf of the
Government of the Republic of
India.

For and on behalf of the Govt. of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

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MEA52085218Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development between India and BangladeshFRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON COOPERATION FOR
DEVELOPMENT BETWEEN
GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA
AND
GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH
The Government of the Republic of India (hereinafter Government of India) and the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh (hereinafter Government of Bangladesh)

RECALLING the two countries' shared bonds of history, culture and common values;

DESIRIOUS of living in peace and harmony with each other and fostering good neighbourly relations based on sovereign equality, non¬interference in each other's internal affairs, and mutual respect and mutual benefit;

INSPIRED by an abiding faith in and total commitment to democracy, development, pluralism and peaceful co-existence;

REITERATING their common objective of eradicating poverty, hunger, illiteracy and disease and promoting social justice and inclusive growth with a view to enabling their peoples to realize their potential to the full;

DESIROUS of promoting trans-border cooperation in the management of shared water resources, hydropower potentials and eco-systems and in the areas of connectivity and trade and economic cooperation;

CONVINCED that cooperation at the bilateral, sub-regional and regional levels will accelerate development and enable the two countries to realise their developmental aspirations, shared destiny and common vision of a peaceful and prosperous South Asia;

HAVE AGREED as under:

ARTICLE 1

To promote trade, investment and economic cooperation, which is balanced, sustainable and builds prosperity in both countries. Both Parties shall take steps to narrow trade imbalances, remove progressively tariff and non-¬tariff barriers and facilitate trade,
by road, rail, inland waterways, air and shipping. Both Parties will encourage the development of appropriate infrastructure, use of sea ports, multi-modal transportation and standardization of means of transport for bilateral as well as sub-regional use.

ARTICLE 2

To enhance cooperation in sharing of the waters of common rivers, both Parties will explore the possibilities of common basin management of common rivers for mutual benefit. The Parties will cooperate in flood forecasting and control. They will cooperate and
provide necessary assistance to each other to enhance navigability and accessibility of river routes and ports.

ARTICLE 3

To develop mechanisms for technical cooperation and exchange of advance information with respect to natural disasters. The Parties shall ¬also promote training and capacity building initiatives and cooperation between respective disaster management authorities,
with a view to upgrading response mechanism.

ARTICLE 4

To establish arrangements for cooperation in generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, including electricity from renewable or other sources. The Parties also agree to use power grid connectivity to promote power exchanges to mutual economic
advantage.

ARTICLE 5

To promote scientific, educational, cultural and people to people exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. These shall be implemented through programmes and joint initiatives in areas such as agriculture, education and culture, health, tourism,
sports, science & technology and any other area that the Parties may agree. The Parties shall cooperate by means of exchange of data, scientific knowledge, collaborative research, training, common programmes and in any other manner as may be agreed between
the two Parties.

ARTICLE 6

To develop and implement programmes for environmental protection and responding to the challenges of climate change through adaptation. The Parties shall collaborate on projects of mutual interest to preserve common eco-systems and, as far as practicable, coordinate
their response in international fora.

ARTICLE 7

To harness the advantages of sub-regional cooperation in the power sector, water resources management, physical connectivity, environment and sustainable development for mutual advantage, including jointly developing and financing projects.

ARTICLE 8

To cooperate closely on issues relating to their national interests. Both parties shall work together to create a peaceful environment conducive for inclusive economic growth and development.

ARTICLE 9

To cooperate on security issues of concern to each other while fully respecting each other’s sovereignty. Neither party shall allow the use of its territory for activities harmful to the other.

ARTICLE 10

To establish a Joint Consultative Commission for effective and smooth implementation of this Agreement that shall meet once a year.

ARTICLE 11

The Agreement may be amended by mutual consent in order to enhance, deepen and widen the scope of cooperation, including regional / sub-regional expansion.

ARTICLE 12

This Agreement shall come into force on the date of its signing by the two Parties and shall remain in force until terminated by mutual consent in accordance with Para 2 of this Article.

Either Party may seek termination of this Agreement by giving a written notice to the other Party providing the reasons for seeking such termination. Before this Agreement is terminated, the Parties shall consider the relevant circumstances and hold consultations
to address the reasons cited by the Party seeking termination in the Joint Consultative Commission.

Actions taken or agreements reached pursuant to this Agreement shall not be affected by its expiry or termination.

Done in Dhaka on the Sixth day of September, 2011, in two originals in English Language.

Dr. Manmohan Singh
Prime Minister

Sheikh Hasina
Prime Minister

Government of the Republic of India

Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh

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MEA52185225Agreements/MOUs signed during PM’s visit to Bangladesh

Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development

Protocol to the Agreement concerning the demarcation of the Land Boundary between India and Bangladesh and related matters

Addendum to the MOU between India and Bangladesh to facilitate Overland Transit Traffic between Bangladesh and Nepal

Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation in Renewable Energy

Memorandum of Understanding on Conservation of the Sunderban

Protocol on Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Fisheries

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between Doordarshan and Bangladesh Television

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between Jawaharlal Nehru University and Dhaka University

Agreement of Cooperation between National Institute of Fashion Design (NIFT), India and BGMEA Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT), Bangladesh

Dhaka
September 6, 2011
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MEA52255229Fact Sheet on Agreements and other MOUs signed between India and Bangladesh

Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development

A Framework Agreement between India and Bangladesh had been envisaged during the visit of the Prime Minister of Bangladesh to India in January 2010. The Joint Communiqué issued on that occasion notes that the two Prime Ministers agreed to put in place a
comprehensive framework of cooperation for development between the two countries, encapsulating their mutually shared vision for the future.

The Framework Agreement on Cooperation for Development signed by the two Prime Ministers on September 6, 2011 in Dhaka provides the template for future cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

The Agreement lays down the framework for enhancing mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in a wide range of areas. These include - promotion of trade, investment and economic cooperation; connectivity; water resources; management of natural disasters;
generation, transmission and distribution of electricity, including from renewable or other sources; promotion of scientific, educational and cultural cooperation; people to people exchanges; environmental protection and responding to challenges of climate
change through adaptation; sub regional cooperation in the power sector, water resources management, physical connectivity, environment and sustainable development; and enhancing cooperation in security. The Agreement may be amended by mutual consent in order
to enhance, deepen and widen the scope of cooperation, including regional/ sub-regional expansion.

The Agreement would enable the two countries to realize their shared destiny and common vision through the optimum utilization of opportunities for mutual benefit.

A Joint Consultative Commission would be established to monitor effective and smooth implementation of the Agreement. The Commission will meet annually.

The Agreement entered into force today and shall remain in force until terminated by mutual consent by either Party.

Protocol to the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement

The Protocol to the Agreement Concerning the Demarcation between India and Bangladesh and Related Matters signed today between the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh and the External Affairs Minister of India seeks to address all outstanding land boundary issues
and provide a final settlement to the India-Bangladesh boundary. The outstanding issues addressed include (i) undemarcated land boundary in three sectors viz. Daikhata-56 (West Bengal), Muhuri River-Belonia (Tripura) and Dumabari (Assam); (ii) enclaves; and
(iii) adverse possessions. The undemarcated boundary in all three segments has now been demarcated.The status of 111 Indian enclaves in Bangladesh with a population of 37,334 and 51 Bangladesh enclaves in India with a population of 14,215 has been addressed.
The issue of Adversely Possessed Lands along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya and Assam has also been mutually finalised. The boundary settlement has been concluded keeping in view the aspirations of the people.

Addentum to the MOU between India and Bangladesh to facilitate Overland Transit Traffic between Bangladesh and Nepal

The MOU seeks to facilitate rail transit to/from Bangladesh and Nepal by using the Rohanpur-Singhabad route as agreed during the visit of Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh Mrs. Sheikh Hasina to India in January 2010. It also facilitates rail transit between
Bangladesh and Nepal using Indian territory through the Radhikapur-Birol line once the Bangladesh portion is converted into broad guage. The signing of this MOU will facilitate bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Nepal.

MOU on Conservation of the Sunderbans

The MOU seeks to facilitate cooperation in the areas of conservation of biodiversity, joint management of resources, livelihood generation for poverty alleviation and development, cataloging of local flora and fauna and studying the impacts of climate change.
A Working Group would be set up to implement the activities under MoU. The MoU is valid for for an intial period of five years which can be extended further through mutual consent.

Protocol on Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban

The Protocol on Conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban provides for bilateral cooperation in undertaking scientific research, knowledge sharing and patrolling of the Sunderban waterways on their respective sides to prevent poaching or smuggling
of derivatives from wildlife and bilateral initiatives to ensure survival and conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger in the unique ecosystem of the Sunderban. The Protocol also provides for cooperation to promote understanding & knowledge of Royal Bengal Tigers,
exchange of personnel for training and promotion of education.

MoU on Cooperation in the field of Fisheries

The Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh on Cooperation in the Field of Fisheries seeks to promote development of cooperation in fisheries and acquaculture and
allied activities between the two countries through joint activities, programmes, exchange of scientific materials, information and personnel. A Joint Working Group would be set up to facilitate cooperation under the MoU and review progress. The Ministry of
Agriculture of the Government of India and the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock of the Government of Bangladesh would coordinate implementation of the MoU. The MOU would be valid for an initial period of 5 years and can be extended further through mutual
consent.

MOU on Cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy

The Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of renewable energy between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh aims to establish the basis for a cooperative institutional relationship
to encourage and promote technical, bilateral cooperation in the areas of solar, wind and bio energy on the basis of mutual benefit, equality and reciprocity.

MoU on Educational Cooperation between the Jawaharlal Nehru University and the Dhaka University

An MoU on Educational Cooperation between Jawaharlal Nehru University and Dhaka University was signed between the Vice Chancellors of the two Universities in Dhaka on September 6, 2011.

Considering the large number of students from Bangladesh pursuing their academic career in India, especially at the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, a formal mechanism on Educational Cooperation between Dhaka University and the Jawaharlal Nehru University
would foster and institutionalize existing cooperation between the two Universities.

The MoU is designed to be a framework agreement for educational cooperation between the two institutions whereby the two sides express their commitment towards cooperation in identified sectors – Social Sciences, International Relations, Computer Science etc
-- through the annual calendar of events. The MoU is expected to benefit scholars and researchers of both India and Bangladesh.

MoU on Cooperation between Doordarshan (DD) and Bangladesh Television (BTV)

An MoU on Cooperation between the Doordarshan, India and the BTV, Bangladesh was signed by the representatives of two organizations in Dhaka on September 06, 2011.

Under the agreement, both the public broadcasters would make available live telecasts of News, Cultural and Educational Programmes for mutual broadcast. Doordarshan and BTV may also broadcast live of any specific events such as visit of High Dignitaries to
each others’ countries or of cultural events of significance. Further, they would explore the possibilities of jointly co-producing television programmes. Doordarshan, having a well equipped Staff Training Institute for carrying out training in advanced broadcast
techniques for its staff, will endeavour to provide such training to BTV in the fields of programme production, technology and management. In addition, Doordarshan may also to provide consultancy on technical services to BTV.

The agreement would provide an opportunity for BTV and Doordarashan, in general, and DD Bangla, in particular, to telecast its programmes in India and Bangladesh, respectively. The MoU is intended to reddress, to the extent possible, the paucity of Bangladesh
programmes on Indian TV.

MoU between the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi and BGMEA Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT), Dhaka

The Memorandum of Understanding on Academic Cooperation between National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT), Dhaka seeks to promote
cooperation between the two institutes in the areas of exchange of students and faculty and training and research activities concerning design, management and technology. The MoU defines the principles, policy guidelines & procedures of cooperation.

NIFT is a statutory institute under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. It was set up in 1986 to train professionals to meet the requirements of the textiles industry. The Institute has pioneered the evolution of fashion education across the country
through its network of fifteen centres. BIFT, established in 1999 by the BGMEA, is affiliated to the National university of Bangladesh.

Dhaka
September 6, 2011

Fact Sheet on Trade Related Issues

India-Bangladesh trade relations have witnessed a significant improvement in the recent past. In 2010-11, two-way trade crossed the US$ 5 billion mark as a result of a significant increase in Bangladesh’s exports to India (68% over the previous year) and
India’s exports to Bangladesh (43% over the previous year). Bangladesh’s exports to India in 2010-11 was $ 512.5 million and India’s exports to Bangldesh in the same period was US$ 4586.8 million. India is the biggest export destination for Bangladesh outside
the Western world.

Tariff concessions granted by India to Bangladesh under SAFTA (as SAARC LDC) include a zero-duty market access for ALL but 480 items in the sensitive list. India had further increased the duty-free access to 10 million pieces of readymade garments (RMG)
from Bangladesh every year.

Taking into account the trade imbalance between the two countries in favour of India, the Prime Minister of India announced on September 6, 2011, during his visit to Bangladesh, the removal of all 46 textile items from the sensitive list and zero duty access
in all these 46 items for Bangladesh exports to India. This unilateral gesture is expected to address a major and and long-standing demand from Bangladesh for increased market access for Bangladesh products to India.

India is upgrading seven main border Land Customs Stations (LCS) as Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at a total cost of Rs. 467 crores. ICPs will have facilities for immigration, customs, parking, banks, warehousing, quarantine, fuelling etc The measure will
help improve trade with Bangladesh across West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram,. Movement of goods between the two countries is covered by the existing ‘Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (IWTT)’ for use of waterways, ‘Fundamental and
Subsidiary Rules’ guiding movement of railways, ‘Standard Operating Procedures for movement of Trucks’ between LCSs and ‘Air Services Agreement’. Further, to restore the traditional economic and cultural links between people in adjoining states in India and
Bangladesh, Border Haats have been established, starting with inauguration of Border Haat in Meghalaya.

Bilateral investment will be faciliated by the recent conclusion of the ‘Bilateral Investment Protection & Promotion Agreement’ and ‘Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation’ between the two countries. So far 225 Indian firms have proposed foreign
direct investment totaling $ 558.77 million as 100% Indian-owned or JV proposals. In 2008 and 2009 the total Indian investment was $ 400 million. (Source: Board of Investment, BD, April 2011). It is hoped that Bangladesh investments in India will increase
with easing of local currency transfer restrictions.

Given the geographical proximity, warm and friendly ties, availability of workforce and investment-supportive atmosphere, the quantum of Indian investment and trade with Bangladesh is further expected to improve for mutual benefit.

Dhaka
September 6, 2011
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MEA52295244MOU between India and Bangladesh on Renewable Energy CooperationMemorandum of Understanding On Renewable Energy
Cooperation Between Government of the People’s
Republic of Bangladesh AND Government of the
Republic of India
The Power Division, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh AND the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of the Republic of India, hereinafter referred to as ‘The Parties’;

Desiring to enhance traditional ties of friendship between the two countries through development of economic cooperation;

Having identified New and Renewable Energy as a common area of interest; and Desiring to establish New and Renewable Cooperation in this area with the aim of developing new and renewable energy technologies; Have reached the following understanding:

Article I OBJECTIVE
The objective of this Memorandum of Understanding is to establish the basis for a cooperative institutional relationship to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable energy issues on the basis of mutual benefit equality and
reciprocity.

Article II MODALITIES OF COOPERATION
Cooperation under this Memorandum of Understanding may take the following modalities.

exchange and training of scientific and technical personnel;

exchange of scientific and technological available information and data;

organization of workshops seminars and working groups;

transfer of equipment know-how and technology and technical standards on non-commercial basis;

development of joint research or technical projects on subjects of mutual interest;

exchange visit of Government officials and technical experts for sharing of experiences on renewable energy practices, policies, framework, incentive and technologies with financing mechanism;

other modalities as may be agreed upon by the Parties.

Article III WORKING GROUP
In order to coordinate the above-mentioned activities and decide upon project proposals related to design and development of various new and renewable energy technologies such as but not restricted to Solar Energy, Wind Energy and Bio-Energy the Parties intend
to establish a "Joint Working Group" with the objectives of:

Identifying areas of mutual interest and cooperation for development of new and renewable energy technologies, systems, sub-systems, devices, components, etc.

Monitoring and evaluating cooperation activities.

Financing mechanism and cost sharing of activities under this MOU.

The Parties shall designate one main representative not below the rank of Joint Secretary from each representative ministries to the Joint Working Group. For the aforesaid activities, the Joint Working Group shall to the extent possible conduct its work through
electronic communication, but meet alternately in India and Bangladesh, when this is deemed necessary.

The Joint Working Group can co-opt other members from Government agencies, scientific institutions, research centers, universities or any other entity, as and when considered essential.

Article IV AMENDMENT
This Memorandum of Understanding can be amended by the Parties through mutual consultation. The amendments shall be enclosed with this Memorandum of Understanding and shall form an integral part of it thereof.

Article V ENTRY INTO FORCE, DURATION AND TERMINATION
This Memorandum of Understanding will enter into force on the date of signing and shall remain in force unless revoked by the consent of the Parties.

Either of the Parties may terminate this Memorandum of Understanding by giving the other party a written notice of 90 (ninety) days in advance of its decision to terminate this Memorandum of Understanding. Termination will not affect activities covered by a
collaborative contract between the executive agencies and already underway at the time of termination.

In witness thereof, the undersigned representatives of the contracting parties being duly authorized thereto have signed this Memorandum of Understanding.

Signed at Dhaka on the Sixth day of September 2011 in two originals, in English language.

For and on behalf of the
Government of the
Republic of India

For and on behalf of the
Government of the
People's Republic of
Bangladesh

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MEA52445256Protocol to the Agreement between India and Bangladesh concerning the demarcation of the land boundary between India and Bangladesh and related matters
Bearing in mind the friendly relations existing between the two countries,

Desiring to define more accurately at certain points and to complete the demarcation of the land boundary between India and Bangladesh,

Having regard to the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh concerning the demarcation of the land boundary between India and Bangladesh and related matters, May 16, 1974 and Exchange
of Letters dated December 26, 1974; December 30, 1974; October 7, 1982; and March 26, 1992 (hereinafter referred to as the 1974 Agreement),
Have agreed as follows:

ARTICLE 1

The provisions of this Protocol shall form an integral part of the 1974 Agreement.

Boundary in this segment shall be drawn westwards from the existing Boundary Pillar No. 2159/48-S along the agreed line as depicted in the index map prepared jointly till it meets the southern limit of the Burning Ghat as shown in jointly surveyed map of Muhuri
river area in 1977-78. Thereafter it shall follow the external limit of the Burning Ghat in South-West direction and then turn northwards along the external limit of the Burning Ghat till it meets the centre of the existing Muhuri River. Thereafter it shall
run along the mid stream of the existing Muhuri River upto Boundary Pillar No. 2159/3-S. This boundary shall be the fixed boundary. The two Governments should raise embankments on their respective sides with a view to stabilising the river in its present course
as stipulated in the 1974 Agreement. The Parties agree to fencing on ‘zero line’ in this area.

111 Indian Enclaves in Bangladesh and 51 Bangladesh Enclaves in India as per the jointly verified cadastral enclave maps and signed at the level of DGLR&S, Bangladesh and DLR&S, West Bengal (India) in April 1997, shall be exchanged without claim to compensation
for the additional areas going to Bangladesh.

Line drawn by Radcliffe from Boundary Pillar 1397(point Y) i.e. the last demarcated boundary pillar position, straight southward to the tri-junction of Mouzas Dumabari, Lathitilla and Bara Putnigaon i.e upto iron bridge, and thence it shall run generally southwards
along the midstream of the course of Putni Chara as already demarcated on the ground, till it meets the boundary between Sylhet (Bangladesh) and Tripura (India) i.e. Boundary Pillar No. 1800.

(IV) The land boundary in the area mentioned below shall be demarcated in the following manner:

Daikhata 56 (West Bengal-Jalpaiguri) / Panchagarh

Boundary in this segment shall be drawn as fixed boundary from existing Boundary Pillar 774/32-S in the strip sheet 444/6 along the mouza boundary of Daikhata-56 as surveyed in 1997-98 and thereafter will follow the southern boundary of Daikhata-56 (from east
to west) upto Point No 18 and therefrom it will follow the western boundary of Daikhata-56 (from south to north) till it meets the center of River Sui at Point No 15 and thereafter, will run along the center of the River Sui upto Point No 1, the points as
depicted in the sketch map jointly prepared and mutually agreed on August 3, 2011. Thereafter the International Boundary shall follow the already delineated boundary through Main Pillar (MP) 775.

ARTICLE 3

(I) Article 2 of the 1974 Agreement shall be implemented as follows:

The Government of India and the Government of Bangladesh agree that the boundary shall be drawn as a fixed boundary for territories held in Adverse Possession as determined through joint survey and fully depicted in the respective adversely possessed land area
index map (APL map) finalized by the Land Records and Survey Departments of both the countries between December 2010 and August 2011, which are fully described in clause (a) to (d) below.
The relevant strip maps shall be printed and signed by the Plenipotentiaries and transfer of territorial jurisdiction shall be completed simultaneously with the exchange of the enclaves. The demarcation of the boundary, as depicted in the above-mentioned Index
Maps, shall be as under:­

(a) West Bengal Sector

(i) Bousmari – Madhugari (Kushtia-Nadia) area The boundary shall be drawn from the existing Boundary Pillar Nos. 154/5-S to 157/1-S to follow the centre of old course of river Mathabanga, as depicted in consolidation map of 1962, as surveyed
jointly and agreed in June 2011.

(ii) Andharkota (Kushtia-Nadia) area The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 152/5-S to Boundary Pillar No 153/1-S to follow the edge of existing River Mathabanga as jointly surveyed and agreed in June 2011.

(iii) Pakuria (Kushtia-Nadia) area The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 151/1-S to Boundary Pillar No 152/2-S to follow the edge of River Mathabanga as jointly surveyed and agreed in June 2011.

(iv) Char Mahishkundi (Kushtia-Nadia) area The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 153/1-S to Boundary Pillar No 153/9-S to follow the edge of River Mathabanga as jointly surveyed and agreed in June 2011.

(v) Haripal/ Khutadah/ Battoli/ Sapameri/ LNpur (Patari) (Naogaon-Malda) area The boundary shall be drawn as line joining from existing Boundary Pillar No 242/S/13, to Boundary Pillar No 243/7-S/5 and as jointly surveyed and agreed in June
2011.

(vi) Berubari (Panchagarh-Jalpaiguri area) The boundary in the area Berubari (Panchagarh-Jalpaiguri) adversely held by Bangladesh, and Berubari and Singhapara- Khudipara (Panchagarh-Jalpaiguri), adversely held by India shall be drawn as jointly
demarcated during 1996-1998.

(b) Meghalaya Sector

(i) Lobachera-Nuncherra The boundary from existing Boundary Pillar No 1315/4-S to Boundary Pillar No 1315/15-S in Lailong -Balichera, Boundary Pillar No 1316/1-S to Boundary Pillar No 1316/11-S in Lailong-Noonchera, Boundary Pillar No 1317
to Boundary Pillar No 1317/13-S in Lailong-Lahiling and Boundary Pillar No 1318/1-S to Boundary Pillar No 1318/2-S in Lailong-Lubhachera shall be drawn to follow the edge of tea gardens as jointly surveyed and agreed in Dec 2010.

(ii) Pyrdiwah/ Padua Area The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 1270/1-S as per jointly surveyed and mutually agreed line till Boundary Pillar No 1271/1-T. The Parties agree that the Indian Nationals from Pyrdiwah village
shall be allowed to draw water from Piyang River near point No 6 of the agreed Map.

(iii) Lyngkhat Area

(aa) Lyngkhat-I / Kulumcherra & Lyngkhat-II/ Kulumcherra

The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No. 1264/4-S to Boundary Pillar No 1265 and BP No 1265/6-S to 1265/9-S as per jointly surveyed and mutually agreed line.

(ab) Lyngkhat-III/ Sonarhat

The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 1266/13-S along the nallah southwards till it meets another nallah in the east-west direction, thereafter it shall run along the northern edge of the nallah in east till it meets the existing International
Boundary north of Reference Pillar Nos.1267/4-R-B and 1267/3-R­ I.

(iv) Dawki/ Tamabil area The boundary shall be drawn by a straight line joining existing Boundary Pillar Nos 1275/1-S to Boundary Pillar Nos 1275/7-S. The Parties agree to fencing on ‘zero line’ in this area.

(v) Naljuri/ Sreepur Area

(aa) Naljuri I

The boundary shall be a line from the existing Boundary Pillar No 1277/2-S in southern direction upto three plots as depicted in the strip Map No 166 till it meets the nallah flowing from Boundary Pillar No 1277/5-T, thereafter it will run along the western
edge of the nallah in the southern direction upto 2 plots on the Bangladesh side, thereafter it shall run eastwards till it meets a line drawn in southern direction from Boundary Pillar No 1277/4-S.

(ab) Naljuri III

The boundary shall be drawn by a straight line from existing Boundary Pillar No 1278/2-S to Boundary Pillar No 1279/ 3-S.

(vi) Muktapur/ Dibir Hawor Area

The Parties agree that the Indian Nationals shall be allowed to visit Kali Mandir and shall also be allowed to draw water and exercise fishing rights in the water body in the Muktapur / Dibir Hawor area from the bank of Muktapur side.

The boundary shall be drawn along Sonaraichhera river from existing Boundary Pillar No 1904 to Boundary Pillar No 1905 as surveyed jointly and agreed in July 2011.

(d) Assam Sector

(i) Kalabari (Boroibari) area in Assam sector The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No 1066/24-T to Boundary Pillar No 1067/16-T as surveyed jointly and agreed in August 2011.

(ii) Pallathal area in Assam sector

The boundary shall be drawn from existing Boundary Pillar No. 1370/3-S to 1371/6-S to follow the outer edge of the tea garden and from Boundary Pillar No. 1372 to 1373/2-S along outer edge of the pan plantation.

ARTICLE 4

This Protocol shall be subject to ratification by the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and shall enter into force on the date of exchange of Instruments of Ratification.

Signed at Dhaka on the Sixth day of September, 2011, in two originals in the English language.

For the Government of the
Republic of India

For the Government of the People’s
Republic of Bangladesh

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MEA52565270Protocol on conservation of the royal Bengal tiger of the Sunderban between India and BangladeshPROTOCOL ON CONSERVATION OF THE ROYAL BENGAL TIGER OF THE SUNDERBAN BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF INDIA (THE "INDIA”)

AND GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH (THE "BANGLADESH”)
WHEREAS:
Sunderban, which is an excellent tiger habitat and the largest sanctuary for the Royal Bengal Tiger in the world, stands across the common boundary of India and Bangladesh; and India and Bangladesh have a shared and common concern of the Royal Bengal Tiger
and accordingly wish to take certain bilateral initiatives for ensuring the survival and conservation of the tiger in the unique ecosystem of Sunderban; and It is necessary to intensify the efforts for the safety of the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Now, therefore, India and Bangladesh hereby agree as following:

Article I

Both countries ­

will undertake bilateral scientific and research projects to promote their understanding and knowledge of the Sunderban’s Royal Bengal Tiger and including habitat will develop information systems, share research data and conduct joint research;

will exchange personnel for training and promotion of education;

will undertake patrolling of the Sunderban waterways on their respective sides to prevent poaching or smuggling of derivatives from wildlife;

agree that either party will not undertake any activity, which will have adverse effect on the biodiversity and the unique ecosystem of Sunderban. However, no restriction on border domination activities be imposed;

will include the safety of Royal Bengal Tiger as an agenda in all border meetings involving the habitat of the tiger.

Article II

For the purpose of training and promotion of education referred to in clause (b) of Article I of this Protocol, the Government of India, at the request of the Government of Bangladesh, will reserve at least four seats for personnel from Bangladesh in the nine
months Diploma Course in the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun.

Article III

A special committee will be constituted in each country to examine human casualties that take place in the Sunderban by tiger attacks with a view to sharing experiences from either side, and to act in consultation with the other side, if necessary.

Article IV

Forest Officers or Park Directors from both the countries will hold periodic meetings on either side of the Sunderban alternately, with a view to sharing management strategies and creating innovative and common management approaches.

Article V

High level Ministerial level meetings will be held to follow up all the recommended actions between the two countries.

Article VI

The Protocol can be amended by mutual consent.

Article VII

The Protocol shall remain valid for 5 (five) years and shall be automatically renewed at the expiry of each period, unless terminated by mutual consent for which the Party desiring to terminate shall serve on the other Party a notice 90 (ninety) days prior
to the date from which termination becomes effective. The termination of this Protocol shall not affect completion of any project which has made substantial progress.
Signed at Dhaka on the Sixth day of September, 2011 in two originals in English
language, each of which is equally authentic.

For the Government of the
Republic of India

For the Government of the People’s
Republic of Bangladesh

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MEA52705287MOU on Academic Cooperation between NIFT, New Delhi and BIFT, Dhaka16-11-2011 17:59:53MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/5287/MOU+on+Academic+Cooperation+between+NIFT+New+Delhi+and+BIFT+Dhaka
MEA528786Agreements signed during the visit of the President of India to Mongolia

Name of Agreement

Indian Signatory

Mongolian Signatory

Agreement on Cooperation in Defence Matters between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of Mongolia.

Shri Satbir Singh
Ambassador of India to Mongolia

Mr. Zandanshatar Gombojav
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Mongolia on Media Exchanges.

Shri Sanjay Singh
Secretary (East),
Ministry of External Affairs

Mr. Enkhbold Voroshilov
Ambassador of Mongolia to India

Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation between the Planning Commission of the Republic of India and the National Development Innovation Committee of Mongolia.

Smt. Sudha Pillai
Member-Secretary,
Planning Commission of India

Mr. Khashchuluun Chuluundorj
Chairman, National Development Innovation Committee of Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar

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MEA8687Joint Statement following meeting between the Minister of External Affairs of India and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan

The Minister of External Affairs of India, H.E. S.M. Krishna and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, H.E. Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar met in New Delhi on July 27, 2011.

The Ministerial level talks were preceded by a meeting between the Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan on July 26, 2011.

The Ministers affirmed the importance of carrying forward the dialogue process with a view to resolving peacefully all outstanding issues through constructive and result oriented engagement, and to establish friendly, cooperative and good neighbourly relations
between Pakistan and India.

The Ministers underlined the need for sustained effort by both countries to build a relationship of trust and mutually beneficial cooperation in conformity with the determination of the people of both countries to see an end to terrorism and violence and
to realise their aspirations for peace and development.

The Ministers agreed that terrorism poses a continuing threat to peace and security and reiterated the firm and undiluted commitment of the two countries to fight and eliminate this scourge in all its forms and manifestations. Both sides agreed on the need
to strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism including among relevant departments as well as agencies to bring those responsible for terror crimes to justice.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction the fact that since the resumption of dialogue earlier this year, the process of release of prisoners and fishermen from both sides has continued. In this regard, the Ministers agreed with the recommendations of the
Judicial Committee on Prisoners regarding (a) early repatriation of the prisoners who have completed their sentences and whose travel documents are available; (b) adoption of a humane approach in dealing with cases of fishermen, women, elderly, juvenile prisoners,
prisoners terminally ill or suffering from serious illness or physical / mental disability and (c) need to monitor the welfare of prisoners in order to ensure their humane treatment.

The Ministers attached importance to promoting peace and security, including Confidence Building Measures, between India and Pakistan and agreed to convene separate meetings of the Expert Groups on Nuclear and Conventional CBMs, in Islamabad in September
2011.

The Ministers held discussions on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir and agreed to the need for continued discussions, in a purposeful and forward looking manner, with a view to finding a peaceful solution by narrowing divergences and building convergences.

On Cross-LoC trade and travel facilitation for Jammu & Kashmir the Ministers decided the following:-

CROSS–LoC TRADE:

List of 21 products of permissible items for Cross-LoC trade will be respected by both sides. The Working Group will review the trading list with a view to further specifying permissible items to facilitate intra-Jammu &Kashmir Cross-LoC trade.

Both sides will provide adequate facilities at the trade facilitation centres on each side.

The number of trading days stand enhanced from 2 to 4 days per week. Truck movements shall take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, both on Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalakot routes.

Regular meetings between the Chambers of Commerce and traders of both sides will be facilitated.

Existing telephone communication facilities should be strengthened.

The meetings of the Designated Authorities will be held alternately at the Terminal of the Crossing Points on both sides of the LoC every quarter or as and when deemed necessary.

CROSS-LoC TRAVEL

Cross-LoC travel would be expanded on both sides of the LoC to include visits for tourism and religious pilgrimage. In this regard, the modalities will be worked out by both sides.

Facilities including waiting area, terminal and clearing procedures at the operational crossing points will be streamlined by both sides for smooth Cross-LoC travel.

The Cross-LoC bus service between Srinagar-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalakot routes will henceforth run on every Monday.

Application forms and requisite documentation in respect of travel across LoC will be exchanged by email between Designated Authorities of both sides. Such email transfer of application forms will be backed up by hard copies.

Both sides will expedite the processing time for applications, which shall not be more than 45 days.

Six month multiple entry cross-LoC travel permits will be allowed by the Designated Authorities after completion of the required formalities at an early date.

Coordination meetings between the Designated Authorities will be held at the Terminals alternately on both sides of the LoC every quarter or as and when deemed necessary.

It was agreed that the Joint Working Group will henceforth meet on a bi-annual basis to review existing arrangements and suggest additional measures for Cross-LoC travel and trade.

The Ministers agreed that increase in trade and economic engagement between the two countries would be mutually beneficial. In this context, they emphasized the importance of early establishment of a non-discriminatory trade regime between the two countries,
including reduction/removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers. They also emphasised the need for facilitating trade and redressing trade imbalance. The Ministers noted with satisfaction that during their meeting held in Islamabad in April 2011, the Commerce
Secretaries of the two countries had decided on a number of important steps to realize the full potential of bilateral trade.

The Ministers agreed that discussions will continue on Siachen, Wullar Barrage/Tulbul Navigation Project and Sir Creek to find a mutually acceptable solution to these issues. They reiterated their commitment to seeking early and amicable solutions to all
these issues. They reaffirmed their commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty.

The Ministers also agreed that people of the two countries are at the heart of the relationship and that issues of people-to-people contacts and humanitarian issues should be accorded priority and treated with sensitivity. They noted with satisfaction the
progress made towards finalization of a revised Visa Agreement which would help liberalise the visa regime and facilitate people-to-people, business-to-business and sports contacts.

The Ministers also emphasized promotion of cooperation in various fields including, facilitating visits to religious shrines, media exchanges, holding of sports tournaments and cessation of hostile propaganda against each other.

The Ministers decided to resume the work of the India-Pakistan Joint Commission and agreed that the Technical Level Working Groups should hold their meetings to identify avenues of further cooperation in these fields.

They reaffirmed their commitment to the goals and objectives of SAARC and agreed to make joint efforts to promote cooperation for regional development in the SAARC framework.

It was also decided that the Foreign Ministers will meet again in Islamabad in the first half of 2012 to review progress in the dialogue process.

The Ministers agreed to the continuation of the dialogue process and to the convening series of Secretaries level meetings on Counter-terrorism (including progress on Mumbai trial) and Narcotics Control; Humanitarian issues; Commercial and Economic cooperation;
Wullar Barrage/Tulbul Navigation Project; Sir Creek (at the level of Additional Secretaries/Surveyors General); Siachen; Peace & Security, including CBMs; Jammu & Kashmir; and Promotion of Friendly Exchanges. Dates of all these meetings will be decided through
diplomatic channels and will be held prior to the next Ministerial meeting.

The Ministers noted that Shri Anand Sharma, Hon'ble Minister for Commerce and Industry of India, has extended an invitation to his counterpart, H. E. Makhdoom Amin Fahim, Minister of Commerce of Pakistan to visit India at a mutually convenient date.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan will be calling on Dr. Manmohan Singh, Hon'ble Prime Minister of India. She will also be calling on Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Hon'ble Leader of the Opposition (Lok Sabha).

New Delhi

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MEA875026Agreements signed during the visit of the President of India to Republic of Korea

S.No.

Name of the Agreement

Korean Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Republic of Korea for Cooperation in the peaceful uses of Nuclear Energy.

H.E. Mr. Kim Sung-hwan,
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Republic of Korea

Dr. Srikumar Banerjee,
Secretary,
Department of Atomic Energy

2.

MoU between the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea on Media Exchanges

H.E. Mr. Choung Byoung-gug,
Minister of Culture,
Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea

Sh. Sanjay Singh,
Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs

3.

Administrative Arrangements for Social Security Agreement.

H.E. Mrs. Chin Soo Hee,
Minister of Health and Welfare of the Republic of Korea

Sh. S.R. Tayal,
Ambassador of India

Seoul (ROK)
July 25, 2011 ]]>15-11-2011 13:01:48MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/5026/Agreements+signed+during+the+visit+of+the+President+of+India+to+Republic+of+Korea
MEA502689India-U.S. Strategic Dialogue Joint StatementIndia's Minister of External Affairs Shri S.M. Krishna and the U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met in New Delhi on July 19, 2011, for the second annual meeting of the India-U.S. Strategic Dialogue. The leaders recognized the achievements made
since the inaugural Strategic Dialogue in June 2010 and President Obama's historic visit to India in November 2010 in advancing our two countries' shared interests. They committed to continuing to broaden and deepen the India-U.S. global strategic partnership.

As a testament to the relationship's extraordinary breadth and depth, Secretary Clinton was accompanied by Director of National Intelligence James Clapper, the President's Advisor for Science and Technology Dr. John P. Holdren, Department of Energy Deputy Secretary
Daniel Poneman, Department of Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Jane Holl Lute, and other senior U.S. government officials.

Minister Krishna was also joined at the working lunch by Home Minister P. Chidambaram and Minister for Human Resource Development and Information Technology Kapil Sibal.

As part of Secretary Clinton's visit to India, she met with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Chairperson of the United Progressive Alliance Sonia Gandhi, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj, and National
Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon.

Secretary Clinton offered her prayers and sympathies to the victims of the despicable attacks in Mumbai on July 13. The American people stand with the Indian people in times of trial, and offer support to India's efforts to bring the perpetrators of these terrible
crimes to justice. Minister Krishna welcomed the expressions of support from the Secretary, the President, and the U.S. Congress. The two leaders resolved to strengthen cooperation between their governments to fight against terrorism.

Since the inaugural Strategic Dialogue in 2010, the India-U.S. partnership has resulted in advances in nearly every area of human endeavor. The two sides have expanded their strategic consultations to cover all major issues and regions of the world. They have
increased counterterrorism cooperation, intelligence sharing, and law enforcement exchanges. They have continued to expand their defence cooperation. They have expanded their growing partnership on export controls and non-proliferation. They have witnessed
an expansion of the already robust people-to-people ties; scientific, space, and technology collaboration; clean energy cooperation; and connections among entrepreneurs and social innovators.

The two leaders emphasized our countries' shared values – pluralism, tolerance, openness, and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights. They reiterated Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's and President Barack Obama's pledge to harness these shared
strengths and to expand the India-U.S. global partnership for the benefit of their countries; and, for peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia and the world.

Today, the two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations and set new goals to further strengthen the India-U.S. Global Strategic Partnership.

Global Stability and Prosperity

Marking the expansion of strategic consultations, the two sides launched a Central Asia Dialogue in June 2011 in New Delhi and a West Asia Dialogue in July 2011 in Washington DC. The two sides intend to expand strategic consultations to other regions, including
Latin America and Caribbean, and plan to hold the fourth round of the East Asia Dialogue in September 2011.

India, the United States, and Japan plan to commence a trilateral dialogue at senior official level.

They welcomed the launch of bilateral dialogue on United Nations matters in New Delhi in March 2011. The two sides intend to continue this dialogue and meet next in Washington in early 2012, while continuing regular consultations between capitals and in
UN cities as appropriate.

Following on the successful meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on UN Peacekeeping Operations in March 2011 in New Delhi, the two countries hope to conduct their 10th meeting of the JWG in early 2012.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment for consultation, coordination, and cooperation on Afghanistan, and to work jointly in Afghanistan in capacity building, agriculture, and women's empowerment, expanding on work already underway. Both sides agreed
to Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and inclusive reconciliation.

The two sides acknowledged that increased trade, transit, and commercial linkages across South and Central Asia will benefit Afghanistan and contribute to the region's long-term peace, stability, and prosperity.

The two sides intend to promote food security in Africa through a triangular cooperation program with Liberia, Malawi, and Kenya. A promising area of potential collaboration includes the participation of Africans at Indian universities and research and
technical institutes in mutually agreed capacity building programs. The two sides agree to explore additional areas based on requests from the three African countries.

As part of the India-U.S. Dialogue on Open Government launched in November 2010, the two countries have committed to jointly create an open source "Data.gov” platform by the first quarter of 2012 to be taken to interested countries globally. Leveraging
the high-technology strengths and institutional expertise of both India and the United States, the "open source” platform is intended to provide citizens access to Government information via a user-friendly website and a package of e-Governance applications
to enhance public service delivery.

The two sides reiterated their commitment to work together to strengthen election management capacity in interested countries. They welcomed the technical collaboration between the Indian International Institute of Democracy and Election Management and
the Washington DC-based International Federation of Electoral Systems.

Secretary Clinton recalled President Obama's statement that, in the years ahead, the United States looks forward to a reformed UN Security Council that includes India as a permanent member.

Enhancing the U.S. – India Bilateral Relationship

Defence, security and counter-terrorism

The two sides launched the Homeland Security Dialogue in May 2011 in New Delhi, and have decided upon on a program of cooperation in global supply chain management, megacity policing, combating counterfeit currency and illicit financing, cyber security,
critical infrastructure protection, and capacity building and technology upgrading.

They reiterated their commitment to further strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation, including through intelligence sharing, information exchange, operational cooperation, and access to advanced counter-terrorism technology and equipment. The two sides
had their ninth meeting of the Joint Working Group on Counter-terrorism in March 2011 in New Delhi.

The two leaders reiterated that success in Afghanistan and regional and global security requires elimination of safe havens and infrastructure for terrorism and violent extremism in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Condemning terrorism in all its forms, the two
sides confirmed that all terrorist networks must be defeated and called for Pakistan to move expeditiously in prosecuting those involved in the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

The two sides reiterated their commitment on comprehensive sharing of information on the investigations and trials relating to the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

The two countries held cyber consultations on July 18, led by their two National Security Councils, at which they exchanged views on a broad range of cyberspace issues and coordinated bilateral cooperation on cyber issues. The United States and India signed
on 19 July 2011 a Memorandum of Understanding between our Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERT-IN and US-CERT) to exchange information on cyber attacks and mutual response to cybersecurity incidents, to cooperate on cybersecurity technology, and to exchange
information on cybersecurity policy and best practices and capacity building and exchange of experts.

India and the United States welcomed progress in bilateral defence cooperation. The Defence Policy Group met in March 2011 and plans to meet again in early 2012.

The two sides noted India's defence orders from U.S. companies have reached a cumulative value of over USD 8.0 billion in the last decade. The two sides noted that these sales reflect strengthened cooperation. Both sides also affirmed their desire to strengthen
cooperation through technology transfer, and joint research, development and production of defence items.

They noted progress in defence bilateral exchanges, exercises, capacity building, information sharing, including in the areas of counternarcotics, counter piracy, maritime safety and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief. They affirmed the importance
of maritime security, unimpeded commerce, and freedom of navigation, in accordance with international law, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

The United States and India agreed to continue consultations on maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region in existing forums such as Defense Policy Group and its appropriate sub-groups. They also agreed to exchange views on promoting regional
security architecture that enhances maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

The United States welcomed India's decision to chair a plenary of the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia in 2012.

Civil Nuclear Cooperation

The two leaders welcomed the continued commitment of the two governments for full implementation of the India-U.S. civil nuclear energy cooperation agreement. They reiterated their commitment to build strong India - U.S. civil nuclear energy cooperation
through the participation of U.S. nuclear energy firms in India on the basis of mutually acceptable technical and commercial terms and conditions that enable a viable tariff regime for electricity generated. They noted that the United States has ratified the
Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC) and India intends to ratify the CSC within this year. They further noted that India is committed to ensuring a level playing field for U.S. companies seeking to enter the Indian nuclear energy sector, consistent
with India's national and international legal obligations.

The United States looks forward to hosting a senior-level Indian delegation at the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Energy Working Group (CNEWG) next week at Oak Ridge Laboratory.

Membership of Export Control Regimes

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress we have achieved together towards India's full membership of the four multilateral export control regimes – Nuclear Suppliers Group, Missile Technology Control Regime, Australia Group and the Wassennaar
Arrangement – in a phased manner consistent with the core principles of these regimes, as the Government of India takes steps towards the full adoption of the regimes' export control requirements.

Export Control Cooperation

India welcomed steps taken by the United States to remove Indian entities from the U.S. Department of Commerce's ‘Entity List' and realignment of India in U.S. export control regulations. Both sides agreed to continue efforts to fulfill objectives of strengthening
export control cooperation envisaged in the Joint Statement of November 2010 as well as on the basis of discussions in the High Technology Cooperation Group held earlier this month.

Nuclear Security

The two sides looked forward to holding later this year the first meeting of the U.S.-India Joint Working Group to implement the MOU on Cooperation with India's Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnerships.

Strategic Security Dialogue

Both sides view the Strategic Security Dialogue, the last round of which was held in Vienna on 14 June 2011, as a vital element in their dialogue architecture which has strengthened the common ground in promoting global non-proliferation objectives. Both
sides also discussed key issues on the multilateral agenda, and looked forward to the commencement of negotiations of the Fissile Missile Cutoff Treaty in the Conference on Disarmament.

Prosperity

The two sides welcomed increases of 30 percent in bilateral trade in 2010 over the previous year and the balanced and positive growth in services trade. They also welcomed the increase in foreign direct investment flows in both directions.

The two governments plan to resume technical-level negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) in August in Washington D.C. A BIT would enhance transparency and predictability for investors, and support economic growth and job creation in both countries.

The two sides reiterated their commitment to take steps to expand trade ties. The India-U.S. Trade Policy Forum plans to meet in October 2011, and on-going public-private discussions are to continue under the Commercial Dialogue.

The two governments intend to participate in the first Consular Dialogue on July 25 in Washington DC for a full discussion of visa and other consular matters.

The two governments signed a Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) on July 18.

The U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the U.S. Export-Import Bank, the U.S. Trade Development Agency (USTDA), and U.S. Agency for International Development, in coordination with multiple U.S. government agencies, are participating in
the development of clean and renewable energy projects, energy-efficient buildings and Smart Grids in India. The two leaders welcomed the progress in the USTDA supported bilateral Energy Cooperation Programme, announced in November 2010, which works with Indian
and U.S. businesses on deployment of clean energy technology in India. The bilateral Joint Clean Energy Research and Development Center is accepting applications for its $100 million, five-year program that is stimulating new collaboration between the United
States' and India's public and private sectors in solar energy, energy-efficient buildings, and advanced biofuels.

The India-U.S. agriculture dialogue was launched in September 2010 to intensify collaboration with India on food security, including joint work with third countries. USTDA hosted a trade mission to the United States for business and government representatives
from India in the cold storage field.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Ministry of Earth Sciences have set up a "monsoon desk" to share the latest monsoon prediction models, which are now providing forecasts for the 2011 Indian monsoon season.

Women's Empowerment

The Women's Empowerment Dialogue is planned for September 2011 in New Delhi.

Education, Innovation, Science and Technology

The United States and India plan to host a Higher Education Summit in Washington D.C. on October 13 to highlight and emphasize the many avenues through which the higher education communities in the United States and India collaborate.

The United States and India plan to expand its higher education dialogue, to be co-chaired by the U.S. Secretary of State and Indian Minister of Human Resource Development to convene annually, incorporating the private/non-governmental sectors and higher
education communities to inform government-to-government discussions.

As part of the Obama-Singh 21st Century Knowledge Initiative (OSI), the two governments announced the publication of their requests for proposals from post-secondary educational institutions that support OSI's goals of strengthening teaching, research,
and administration of both U.S. and Indian institutions through university linkages and junior faculty development.

The United States created the Passport to India initiative to encourage an increase in the number of American students studying and interning in India. The leaders recognized the great bridge of mutual understanding resulting from the more than 100,000
Indian students studying and interning in the United States.

The United States' Department of Energy and India's Department of Atomic Energy signed an Implementing Agreement on Discovery Science that provide provides the framework for cooperation in accelerator and particle detector research and development at Fermi
National Accelerator Laboratory, Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, and Brookhaven National Laboratory.

The India-U.S. S&T Endowment Board, established by Secretary Clinton and Minister Krishna in 2009, plans to award nearly $3 million annually to entrepreneurial projects that commercialize technologies to improve health and empower citizens. The two sides
are strongly encouraged by the response to this initiative, which attracted over 380 joint India-U.S. proposals. The Endowment plans to announce the first set of grantees by September 2011.

The India-U.S. S&T Forum, now in its tenth year, has convened activities that have led to the interaction of nearly 10,000 Indian and U.S. scientists and technologists.

As a follow up to the successful India-U.S. Innovation Roundtable held in September 2010 in New Delhi, the two sides agreed to hold another Innovation Roundtable in early 2012.

India and the United States plan to host their third annual Women in Science workshop in September 2011.Space

The U.S. – India Joint Space Working Group on Civil Space Cooperation met in July 2011 in Bangalore. Building on the successful Chandrayan-1 lunar mission, NASA and ISRO reviewed potential areas for future cooperation in earth observation, space exploration,
space sciences and satellite navigation. Both sides agreed for early finalization three new implementing arrangements for sharing satellite data on oceans and global weather patterns. Recognising the research opportunities available on the International Space
Station, both sides agreed to explore the possibilities of joint experiments. NASA reiterated its willingness to discuss potential cooperation with ISRO on human spaceflight activities. The two sides also agreed to expand upon previous work in the area of
global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) with the goal of promoting compatibility and interoperability between the U.S. Global Positioning System, India's Navigation systems, and those of other countries.

Secretary Clinton thanked the Minister, the Government, and the people of India for their gracious hospitality, their warm welcome, and their hard work in making this year's Strategic Dialogue a success. Secretary Clinton thanked Minister Krishna for his
strong support for the India-U.S. relationship.

Minister Krishna thanked the Secretary for her participation and engagement in this year's Strategic Dialogue and for the commitment and dedication she has given to the U.S. – India global partnership.

The next meeting of the Strategic Dialogue is planned for Washington D.C. in 2012.

New Delhi

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MEA8990Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of New Zealand

Sl. No.

Name of the MOU/Agreement

New Zealand Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Agreement between the two Governments on Audio-Visual Co-Production

H.E. MRS. JAN HENDERSON High Commissioner of New Zealand to India

SHRI RAGHU MENON
Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

2.

Protocol for Cooperation between the two Governments on Science and Innovation

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MEA905011Joint Statement on the State Visit of Prime Minister of New ZealandThe Prime Minister of New Zealand H.E. Mr John Key paid a state visit to India from 26-30 June at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. The New Zealand Prime Minister was accompanied by the Trade Minister Hon Tim Groser, M.P.
Mr. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi and a high level business delegation.

Commonwealth ties, shared democratic values, people-to-people and sporting links underpin the vibrant bilateral relationship between India and New Zealand. The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the strength of the ties and agreed there was great potential for
further growth in the relationship. They welcomed the enhanced engagement across a range of trade and economic sectors, including science and innovation, education and defence.

Prime Minister Key thanked Prime Minister Singh for the support and sympathy extended by the Government of India to New Zealand, and especially to the residents of Christchurch, following the devastating earthquake on February 22 2011. The two Leaders affirmed
the importance of cooperation on disaster preparedness and emergency response management systems, a shared area of focus for the two countries working together in regional forums such as the East Asia Summit.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the increased trade and investment flows between India and New Zealand and noted the potential to expand bilateral trade significantly. The two Prime Ministers reiterated the commitment to early conclusion of the Free Trade
Agreement (FTA) negotiations, noting that the ongoing negotiations were proceeding well. Successful conclusion of a high quality and comprehensive FTA would provide the platform for stronger economic interaction to the benefit of both economies.

The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the complementary nature of the key exports from each country and noted the role that bilateral trade and sharing of expertise between them could play in ensuring food security for the future.

Building on existing film industry links, an Agreement on Audio-Visual Co-Productions was signed in the presence of the two Prime Ministers. This Agreement will allow both sides to encourage industry level cooperation, share creative talent, and support the
vibrant film industry in both countries.

The two Prime Ministers announced a new Education Cooperation Initiative. This jointly-funded Initiative, worth NZ $ 1 million annually (i.e. around Rs 3.6 crores) to be shared equally by New Zealand and India, will promote partnerships in two key streams;
higher education and research, and skills and vocational education. The Initiative will focus on areas such as academic and student exchanges, joint research activities, and industry collaborations. The Initiative also includes sports scholarships and provides
opportunities to share expertise and experience in tribal and indigenous higher education. A Joint Education Council will be established to implement the Prime Ministers' Initiative.

The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of a Science and Innovation Protocol for Cooperation, which will provide a framework for future scientific exchanges and research collaboration. The two Leaders welcomed the first joint science initiative, the Science
Research Workshop on Food Technologies and Dairy, held recently in New Zealand at the Riddet Institute/Massey University and Lincoln University.

The two Leaders also acknowledged the good cooperation developing in the civil aviation sector. Both sides are exploring cooperation in the aviation field, including the furthering of relationships in the training area.

The two Prime Ministers agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Prime Minister Key announced that New Zealand will appoint a Defence Adviser to India to better facilitate defence linkages. Both sides noted the need for ensuring the safety and
security of sea lanes and agreed that regional and global cooperation should continue to ensure maritime security. The two Leaders agreed that ship visits and staff college exchanges had deepened bilateral defence cooperation to the benefit of both sides.

The two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure it reflects the realities of the 21st century. Prime Minister Key announced the support of New Zealand for India's membership in a reformed Security Council,
including in any expansion of permanent membership.

Both sides share the vision of a nuclear weapon free world. New Zealand welcomes increased engagement between India and the multilateral export control regimes.

The two Prime Ministers discussed global security challenges and agreed on the importance of working in international and regional contexts to achieve stability and prosperity for all. Both Prime Ministers strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms.

India and New Zealand cooperate in regional bodies such as the East Asia Summit (EAS), the ASEAN Regional Forum, ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus and the Asia Europe Meeting. The two Leaders reaffirmed the importance of these bodies for furthering regional
security, economic partnership and political linkages. They agreed to work together to progress the Comprehensive Economic Partnership under the EAS.

People-to-people exchanges form the backbone of the bilateral relationship. The two Prime Ministers agreed that strengthening these enduring personal linkages was a key part of ensuring continued vitality and growth in the relationship. To encourage a deeper
understanding of each others’ countries New Zealand created the Sir Edmund Hillary Fellowship in memory of one of New Zealand’s most inspiring citizens. Prime Minister Key announced that the fellowship recipient for 2011 would be a prominent Indian businessperson.

The Indian community in New Zealand is a vibrant platform for the two-way flow of visitors, migrants and students between New Zealand and India. In further strengthening these valuable ties, in January this year the Government of India conferred on the New
Zealand Governor-General the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA), the highest honour for overseas Indians.

India and New Zealand share strong sporting ties, particularly in the games of cricket and hockey, which are slowly expanding to a range of sports. Cricket is an example of India’s and New Zealand’s shared heritage, close sporting ties and bilateral friendship.
Prime Minister Key congratulated India on its hosting of the Cricket World Cup with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh this year and the Indian team’s victory. The two Leaders looked forward to the next World Cup in 2015, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia. The
two Leaders agreed to work together towards building stronger sporting ties between the two countries as a means to promoting stronger people-to-people links.

New Delhi
June 28, 2011

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MEA50115016Agreement signed during the visit of UAE Foreign Minister

Name of Agreement/MoU

UAE Signatory

Indian Signatory

MoU between the two countries on Political Consultations

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Shri S.M. Krishna
Minister of External Affairs

New Delhi
June 27, 2011
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MEA501691Joint Statement on Meeting between the Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan

Under the resumed dialogue process, the Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India met in Islamabad, on 23-24 June 2011 for bilateral talks on Peace and Security including CBMs, Jammu and Kashmir and promotion of friendly exchanges. Three sessions of talks
were held.

The talks were held in a frank and cordial atmosphere. Both sides reiterated their intention to carry forward the dialogue process in a constructive and purposeful manner.

The issues of Peace and Security, including CBMs, were discussed in a comprehensive manner. Both sides emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue to promote mutual understanding.

They noted the ongoing implementation of various Nuclear and Conventional CBMs. They also decided to convene separate Expert level meetings on Nuclear and Conventional CBMs to discuss implementation and strengthening of existing arrangements and to consider
additional measures, which are mutually acceptable, to build trust and confidence and promote peace and security. The dates for the Expert level meetings will be determined through diplomatic channels.

The Foreign Secretaries noted that both countries recognize that terrorism poses a continuing threat to peace and security and they reiterated the firm and undiluted commitment of the two countries to fight and eliminate this scourge in all its forms and
manifestations. They agreed on the need to strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism.

The Foreign Secretaries exchanged views on the issue of Jammu & Kashmir and agreed to continue discussions in a purposeful and forward looking manner with the view to finding a peaceful solution by narrowing divergences and building convergences.

Both sides agreed to convene a meeting of the Working Group on Cross-LoC CBMs to recommend measures for strengthening and streamlining the existing trade and travel arrangements across the LoC and propose modalities for introducing additional Cross-LoC
CBMs. The Working Group will meet in July 2011.

Both sides agreed to the need for promoting friendly exchanges between the two countries. They noted with satisfaction the progress made towards finalization of the Visa Agreement which will help liberalize the visa regime and facilitate people-to-people,
business-to-business and sports contacts.

The two sides also discussed measures for promoting cooperation in various fields including, facilitating visits to religious shrines, media exchanges, holding of sports tournaments and cessation of hostile propaganda against each other.

The Foreign Secretaries agreed that people of the two countries are at the heart of the relationship and that humanitarian issues should be accorded priority and treated with sensitivity.

The Foreign Secretary of India called on the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar.

The Foreign Secretaries will meet again in New Delhi, on a date to be decided through diplomatic channels, to prepare for the meeting of the Foreign/External Affairs Ministers in New Delhi in July 2011.

Islamabad

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MEA915174Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of Slovenia

Name of Agreement/MoU

Slovenian Signatory

Indian Signatory

Agreement between the two countries on the Mutual Promotion and Protection of Investments

Her Excellency Ms. Darja Radic Minister of Economy

Shri Pranab Mukherjee Minister of Finance

Memorandum of Understanding

Mr. Bogdan Topic

Shri Sharad Gupta

between the Bureau of Indian

President, Slovenian Institute of

Director General, Bureau of

Standards and Slovenian

Standardization

Indian Standards

Institute for Standardization

New Delhi,
June 14, 2011
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MEA517492Joint Press Statement of India - Pakistan Joint Working Group on Visa Matters
The discussions were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere.

The two sides discussed details and modalities of visa facilitation with a view to easing travel for nationals of either country desiring to visit the other.

The two sides also discussed amendments in the existing visa agreement and agreed to continue the discussions on the new visa Agreement in the next meeting of Joint Working Group at New Delhi before the end of August, 2011 for finalization at the next Home/Interior
Secretary level talks in Islamabad.

Islamabad]]>12-08-2011 15:48:30MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/92/Joint+Press+Statement+of+India++Pakistan+Joint+Working+Group+on+Visa+Matters
MEA9293Third Meeting of the India-Mongolia Joint Committee on CooperationShri E Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs paid an official visit to Mongolia to participate in the Third Meeting of the India-Mongolia Joint Committee on Cooperation from 29-31 May 2011. He was accompanied by an official-delegation. Shri Ahamed
and Mr. Yo Otgonbayar, Minister of Education, Culture and Science of Mongolia co-Chaired the Third Meeting of the India-Mongolia Joint Committee on Cooperation. The Joint Committee meeting reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relationship particularly implementation
of the decisions taken during the previous two meetings of the Joint Committee and for making progress on the ground with regard to bilateral cooperation. Shri Ahamed also called on H.E Mr. Sukhbaataryn Batbold, the Prime Minister of Mongolia on 31 May and
discussed matters of mutual interest.

Reconfirming that the traditional relationship between Mongolia and India in the educational and cultural sector is strengthening and rapidly growing and noting that the Indian assistance and contributions to this sector in Mongolia play significant role, both
sides agreed on further broadening this cooperation. Indian side agreed on considering options of supporting certain projects with the purpose of renovation and expansion of Rajiv Gandhi Arts and Production Centre in Ulaanbaatar. Both sides noted the importance
of expediting the construction of the India-Mongolia Joint School in Ulaanbaatar, for which Mongolian side will provide a suitable plot of land and the Indian side agreed to support construction of the School.

Both sides also agreed to expedite the realization of the US$ 20 million line of credit extended by India to Mongolia for establishing the ‘Joint Information Technology Education and Outsourcing Centre' in Mongolia.

Acknowledging the importance of bilateral cooperation in the field of civil nuclear energy, both sides have indicated the need of organizing Joint Working Group meeting in 2011 for the purpose of implementing the MOU on Cooperation in the field of Peaceful
Use of Radioactive Minerals and Nuclear Energy, signed in 2009.

Both sides confirmed the significance and the need of the development of cooperation in the field of agriculture. Mongolian side expressed their aspiration to study Indian expertise in processing dairy products, milk supply means and biotechnology. Mongolian
side proposed to Indian side to consider possibility of setting up joint factory for processing sea-buckthorn products. The Indian side suggested to the Mongolian side to present concrete proposals in the matter.

The two sides noted the importance of furthering the bilateral cooperation in the field of defence, social welfare and labour, health and environment protection. The two sides also agreed on continuation of joint military exercise "Nomadic Elephant”, on training
Mongolian personnel specialized in ecological evaluation, developing software and data processing related to the environment protection and on possibility of collaboration in the field of labour statistics, labour force analyses and brokerage.

Supporting the cooperation in the field of mineral resources and mining, both sides agreed on exploring possibilities of implementing joint projects in Mongolia.

The two sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the Mongolia-India Joint Committee on Cooperation in New Delhi in 2012.

The Defence Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan on Siachen were held on May 30-31, 2011 in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Pradeep Kumar, Defence Secretary, and the Pakistan delegation was led by Lt. Gen (Retired) Syed Athar
Ali, Defence Secretary. The Defence Secretary of Pakistan also called on Shri AK Antony, Defence Minister of India.

Both sides welcomed the ongoing dialogue process. The discussions were held in a frank and cordial atmosphere, contributing to an enhanced understanding of each other’s position on Siachen. They also acknowledged that the ceasefire was holding since November
2003. Both sides presented their positions and suggestions towards the resolution of Siachen.

The Pakistan side presented a non-paper on Siachen.

Both sides agreed to continue the discussions in a meaningful and result oriented manner. They agreed to meet again at a mutually convenient date in Islamabad.

New Delhi
May 31, 2011
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MEA48535177Agreements signed during the visit of the Chancellor of Germany

Sr. No.

Name of the MOU/Agreement

German Signatory

Indian Signatory

1.

Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Vocational Education and Training Between the two countries

H.E. DR. ANNETTE SCHAVAN Federal Minster of Education and Research

SHRI MALLIKARJUN KHARGE Hon’ble Minister of Labour & Employment

2.

Memorandum of Understanding on Research Cooperation between Indian Council of Medical Research and Helmholtz Association of National Research Centers

Africa and India reiterate the mutual desire to expand economic cooperation and trade and investment linkages between them. Recognizing that trade and investment between Africa and India have increased, both Africa and India agree to take further measures to
continue to create a positive ambience for such enhanced flows. Africa has also effectively utilized concessional financial flows from India to Africa for supporting the development of its infrastructure industry and services. Both sides agree to further expand
cooperation and sharing of experiences to increase trade, investment and financial flows between India and Africa as they provide a common paradigm of cooperation in the true spirit of South-South engagement.

Agriculture

Africa and India reaffirm their commitment to cooperate for increasing agricultural output and achieving the Millennium Development Goal of halving the proportion of people who suffer from hunger and malnutrition by 2015. They emphasize the importance of harnessing
the latest scientific research for raising productivity and for the conservation of land and the environment in order to ensure food security for their people and to bring down the currently rising cost of food prices so as to make food affordable for all.
In this respect, they agree to collaborate in the implementation of the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP).

Trade, Industry and Investment

Africa and India recognize that enhanced trade and economic linkages would further contribute to sustainable growth and economic development in both Africa and India and welcome the contribution by India to build value addition and processing facilities in
Africa.

Africa values private investment and financial flows on a concessional basis, which have been received from India and wishes to enhance their usage for building its infrastructure and enhancing the capacity of Africa to increase its exports. The value addition
provided by Indian investment in Africa contributes to Africa's exports to third countries and to the development of intra-Africa trade. Both Africa and India will continue to work together to take these initiatives further.

Africa has also welcomed the Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme for Africa's LDCs unilaterally announced by India at the time of the first India - Africa Forum Summit in 2008. It has significantly contributed to the ability of African countries to access the
growing Indian market and contributed to the creation of complementarity in their export baskets. Africa and India will together endeavour to increase awareness and usage of this Scheme.

In the Action Plan of the Framework of Cooperation of IAFS-1, several initiatives were taken to build African capacities so that African human resources could join the process of industrialization and development of the services sector. Africa and India propose
to continue to develop more such initiatives so that the growing young population of Africa finds suitable training and integration into the increasing economic opportunities in Africa.

Support to the legal and regulatory environment for public private partnerships, particularly in infrastructure, operationalisation of bilateral agreements on investment promotion and protection between India and African Countries and support to the development
of capacities in the Chambers of Commerce in Africa, would be among the new priorities to be pursued.

African countries have found the India-Africa Project Partnership Conclaves to be useful vehicles for bringing Indian and African entrepreneurs and decision makers together. These would be continued.

Small and Medium Enterprises

As Africa moves towards more rapid industrialization, there is a growing recognition that small, medium and micro enterprises offer significant avenues for supporting industrialization, generating employment and enhancing local capacities. Institutional support
for the development of SMEs in Africa will be provided through the vocational training centres offered by India and the linkages between SMEs on both sides through the Conclaves and other activities by Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Africa and India will
continue to work together on such initiatives, particularly to support the creation of entrepreneurship development and business incubators in Africa. It is the common endeavour of both that in the capacity building initiatives to be undertaken in the future,
support to the private sector would be an integral part of the new efforts.

Finance

One of the salient features of the first Africa- India Forum Summit and its Action Plan was the commitment by India for new financial flows to assist African countries in the true spirit of South-South Cooperation. Besides the grants for establishing capacity
building institutions in Africa, there was an important commitment for concessional lines of credit to support the economic development of African countries and for regional integration. These have been augmented by significant private sector flows through
FDI into Africa. Both Africa and India will work together to enhance the efficacy and spread of these financial flows so that the common objectives are fully met. India remains committed to supporting Africa with concessional lines of credit and suitable grants
for mutually beneficial projects. Greater efforts will be made to utilize these flows for regional integration projects.

There would be an increasing focus to enhance engagement between African and Indian financial institutions and an encouragement for closer relationship between commercial banks in Africa and India. Encouragement will be provided to the opening of branches of
Indian banks in Africa and African banks in India to participate in the growing matrix of financial flows between Africa and India.

Regional Integration

Africa and India reiterate the importance of the Regional Economic Communities in Africa and their contribution to economic integration within themselves and in Africa. India has an important engagement with the Regional Economic Communities of Africa as pat
of its multi-tiered cooperation. Both Africa and India recall the first ever meeting of India with the African RECs held in November 2010. In recognition of this, both Africa and India agree to build capacities for effectively carrying out the implementation
of the integration agenda among the Regional Economic Communities, including in providing financial support to regional integration projects and capacity building programmes among the RECs.

POLITICAL COOPERATION

Africa and India are conscious of the important role they play in the world and agree to intensify political cooperation. Their common endeavour will be to continue to strive for peace and security as such harmonious policies will allow the fructification of
the enhanced agenda of cooperation currently agreed upon. In this respect, the African Union would consider, as soon as possible, the establishment of an office in New Delhi, India, as recognition of the close partnership that exists between Africa and India.

Peace and Security

Peace and Security are essential to progress and sustainable development, which are common goals for Africa and India. Both Africa and India will continue their close cooperation, including through regular consultations at the United Nations, at the African
Union and in New Delhi. Both will work towards an early operationalisation of the African Standby Force through special training programmes.

Civil Society and Governance

Africa and India recognize the importance of democratic governance and of promoting and protecting human rights. They also recognize the importance of decentralization, the promotion of local government and the need to strengthen the institutions of parliamentary
democracy and elections. They agree to enhance cooperation by sharing of experiences and capacity building, where necessary, among Election Commissions, the institutions of parliamentary democracy and media organizations. They also agree to cooperate in the
strengthening of the African Court of Justice and Human Rights through sharing of best practices and capacity building of the court. Africa and India will also encourage interaction of legal experts/lawyers through the Bar Associations. They will also exchange
experiences on best practices, research and human resources within the framework of decentralization and local governance alongside the Conference of Ministers of Public Services and Administration and ECOSOCC.

COOPERATION IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

The development of science & technology and research capacities is an integral pat of the process of development. Africa greatly values the progress made by India in its scientific and technological development and believes that it can engage with India in
these sectors, especially knowledge and technology transfer for mutual benefit. Africa and India are convinced that harnessing the knowledge economy can make hunger and want things of the past. They agree to intensify cooperation in the following areas:

Science and Technology

Africa welcomes the establishment of the Special Agricultural Scholarship Scheme and the Special Science & Technology Fellowship Scheme (CV Raman Fellowships) under the provisions of IAFS-1 and looks forward to continuing this engagement to build scientific
and technological human resource in Africa, including through the Pan-African University for which Africa has requested India, to be the Lead Partner in the Life and Earth Sciences segment. Management of natural disasters, combating desertification and support
to scientific institutions in Africa would continue. Initiatives to enhance linkages between scientific institutions in Africa and India would be undertaken and training on health related issues like HIV, TB and Malaria will be explored. The African-Indian
Science and Technology Conference will also be organised.

Information and Communication Technology

Africa has immense regard and admiration for the strides made by India in the development of its information and communications technology. The contribution of the Government of India towards developing the infrastructure and the resourcefulness of the private
sector and India's scientific and technological manpower in allowing this sector to make important contributions to the growth of GDP in India, are well recognized in Africa. Africa and India recognize the importance of an early introduction of information
and communication technologies as key enablers of capacity building for youth and for poverty eradication and accelerated growth. Africa recognizes the important contribution made by the Pan-African E-Network Project to African countries in achieving these
objectives and both Africa and India commit themselves to taking the lessons of the implementation and efficacy of the Pan-African E-Network Project further, so that the digital divide can be bridged and the socio-economic benefits of ICT can be harnessed
for their mutual objectives.

COOPERATION IN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAPACITY BUILDING

Africa and India both recognize the importance of capacity building, particularly as both are young societies and want to translate the demographic dividend into effective growth. The successful utilization of the ITEC programme offered by India has been a
manifestation of the South-South Cooperation that effectively exists between Africa and India. The enhancement of scholarships and 'training positions under the ITEC programme, as well as the creation of new courses for training of African nationals in specified
areas, all emerge from the Action Plan of the Framework of Cooperation of IAFS-1. Africa and India would endeavour to continue to take these important initiatives forward together. India is committed to their enhancement.

Africa has been appreciative of the 21 new capacity building institutions which India is in the process of establishing in Africa in diverse sectors. These will greatly assist African human resource development for the development of industries and the service
sector to contribute to growth. Both India and Africa will continue to strive to have an early conclusion of the implementation of the process to establish these new institutions in close collaboration between the Indian implementing agencies, the host governments
and the African Union. They will make efforts to have effective governance strategies and business plans for these institutions to make them sustainable. India remains committed to further enhancement of this approach of building African capacities in Africa.

Pan-Africa E-Network Project: Africa and India have both recognized the successful implementation of this visionary project. It has added capacity and value in the critical fields of education and health care in African countries. Its fulsome utilization will
remain one of the major objectives of the Framework of Enhanced Cooperation and effots will be made to enhance its utilization, widen its scope and increase its success rate so that the true objectives of assisting Africa in meeting its millennium development
goals on education and health could be achieved.

Africa and India will continue to work together to increase exchanges in education, health, water and sanitation, culture and spots and povety eradication through innovative new programmes as well as commit themselves to effective implementation of programmes
agreed upon earlier in the Action Plan for the Framework of Cooperation. Special care would be taken to encourage greater investment in some of these sectors as well as to increase financial flows from the government sector to achieve these objectives. India
is committed to continue with increasing number of scholarships both for under-graduate and post- graduate studies including in specialized areas like agriculture, science & technology and other priorities listed in this Framework for Enhanced Cooperation.

COOPERATION IN HEALTH, CULTURE AND SPORTS

Health

In the area of health, Africa and India reiterate their conviction that the promotion of health is critical in the development of the human capital necessary to drive socio-economic growth. They look forward to the outputs and recommendations of the India-Africa
workshop on Traditional medicine to be held in India and undertake to implement the outcome. They reaffirm their commitment to enhance collaboration in the application of advancement in science, technology, research and development to training in the area
of HIV, TB and Malaria; the provision of basic medical services in rural areas, the deployment of Telecoms and ICTs in support of tele-medecine and e-health applications; strengthening of public-private sector collaboration in the areas of pharmaceutical and
procurement in Africa and India in the framework of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan for Africa, the fight against counterfeit medicines.

They also undertake to pursue dialogue on intellectual property rights and access to medicines; research and development in traditional medicine and practices in Africa and India; sharing of experiences, specialized expertise and best practices in healthcare
systems development and community health programmes; support for Africa's Campaign on Accelerated Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa (CARMMA); and training and continuing education for health professionals;

Culture

Noting the role that Culture can play in the development and integration of their societies, specifically through the use of creative and cultural industries, Africa and India agree to collaborate in the development of cultural policies and will undertake the
following: Exchange of experiences in the area of the development of creative industries and cultural goods so as to increase the contribution of culture to the development of their nations and collaborate in the organization of international training for
trainers in the field of cultural goods protection.

Sports

Considering the paramount role that sports can play in the development and integration of their societies, specifically through the use of spots as a tool for development and desirous to advocate for well-designed sports and play programmes, as powerful tools
for fostering health, child and individual development, teaching positive values and life skills, strengthening education and improving health and well being; Africa and India agree to collaborate in the development of spots policies; exchange of experiences
in the area of the development of sports and the training of trainers in the field of qualified spots personnel;

COOPERATION IN TOURISM

Africa and India are deeply conscious of their age-old ties at the people to people level. As neighbors across the Indian Ocean, Africa and India are in favour of providing greater connectivity between the countries of Africa and India and to increase the level
of popular exchanges. Tourism and connectivity remain important areas which could provide economic benefits and also contribute to enhanced mutual understanding. Africa and India therefore, agree to strengthen partnership with the private sector especially,
travel agencies, hotels, airlines and other tourism related establishments, as well as the media, and take other necessary steps that will enable harmonization of policies and norms in tourism with a view to advancing tourism development between the two sides.

COOPERATION IN INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT

Africa and India, fully cognizant of the immense requirements of dealing with issues pertaining to infrastructure, energy and environment, reiterate their commitment to focus on these areas, particularly in the context of sustainable development as important
areas of cooperation. They dedicate themselves to fulfilling programmes established under the Action Plan and to look at enhanced engagement in areas such as the continental NEPAD-Identified infrastructure projects and PIDA, particularly with regard to increasing
financial flows to these sectors. This will provide a better environment for greater investment in these sectors. They agree to work closely together in the interest of developing countries to set an appropriate international agenda to benefit the development
of both Africa and India. Efforts will be made to give more attention to new areas like new and renewable energies through training programmes and capacity building as well as in sustainable environmental practices. The concessional credit flows from India
would be channeled in a wider manner into infrastructure projects. They agree to cooperate in the area of environment, including desertification and support for Africa's Great Green Wall project.

COOPERATION IN THE AREA OF MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS

The successful implementation of the decisions of the first Africa-India Forum Summit emanating from the Framework Cooperation and its Action Plan have brought qualitative change into the existing relationship between Africa and India. The depth and diversity
of the relationship has significantly altered and the traditional engagement has successfully moved towards a modern functional partnership. However, there remains an uneven recognition of this, particularly in the public mind which requires to be addressed.
At the same time, Africa needs greater opportunities to bring its own media and communications to an independent growth path in recognition of its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic identities.

Africa and India therefore agree to promote a larger number of visits between African and Indian editors and journalists, academicians, scholars and civil society representatives, so that closer interaction envisaged in this Framework for Enhanced Cooperation
can be suitably disseminated. In this respect, consideration will be given to the training of African media personnel with a view to capacity building and improving their skills.

Without prejudice to India's ongoing and future programmes at the bilateral, REC and other levels, it is agreed to jointly revise, within a period of six months, the Joint Plan of Action to fully reflect the Africa-India Framework for Enhanced Cooperation.
This Joint Plan of Action will also incorporate a follow-up mechanism which will ensure the effective implementation of programmes and activities agreed in the Plan.

We, the Heads of State and Government and Heads of Delegation representing the Continent of Africa, the African Union (AU) and its Institutions, and the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, have met in Addis Ababa, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia,
from 24 to 25 May 2011, to continue our dialogue, deepen our friendship and enhance our cooperation, under the theme: Enhancing Partnership: Shared Vision.

We recall the Delhi Declaration adopted during our First Summit in New Delhi in April 2008 and the Framework of Cooperation and the associated Plan agreed upon thereafter as providing a concrete foundation for the consolidation of our strategic partnership
and also reviewed the progress made in this regard since the First Summit. We also recall that Africa and India have been fraternal partners and allies in the struggle for independence and achievement of self-determination. We reaffirm that our partnership
remains based on the fundamental principles of equality, mutual respect, mutual benefit and the historical understanding amongst our peoples.

We further agree that this partnership will continue to be guided by the principles of respect for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of States; commitment to deepen the process of African integration, dialogue among our civilizations
to promote a culture of peace, tolerance and respect for religious, cultural and human rights, as well as gender equality, with a view to strengthening the trust and understanding between our peoples; recognition of diversity and levels of development between
and within regions; collective action and cooperation for the common good of our States and peoples and our desire to nurture harmonious development in our plural, multi-cultural and multi-ethnic societies through the consolidation and development of our plural
democracy.

We welcome the continuing transformation of the political, economic and social environment in Africa. Economic growth in Africa has revived to levels that existed before the financial crisis and many African counties are progressing rapidly, opening greater
avenues for economic cooperation. Similarly, India's economy continues to develop into one of the world's growth nodes and has withstood the impact of the global recession well. Both Africa and India have young, dynamic populations with great expectations,
dive and initiative. We recognize that their aspirations and vigour provide a concrete basis for expanding the frontiers of this partnership as an agenda for development, Africa and India therefore, have today a good platform to expand our partnership for
development on the basis of these fundamentals.

We have thus decided to enhance our partnership with new initiatives for the mutual benefit of Africa and India, In recent years, this has included substantial financial flows from India to Africa in terms of grants, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and
concessional loans that continue to contribute to capacity building in the socio-economic sectors, particularly in the human resource development, the development of the private sector, increasing support to infrastructure, agriculture and SMEs, leading to
a substantial expansion of Indian investment in Africa and of trade between Africa and India. We agree, to build upon this by assisting each other to achieve inclusive growth, socio-economic development and self-reliance. Areas for such cooperation will include
sharing strategies for sustainable development, poverty alleviation, healthcare and universal education, and sharing appropriate technologies. These new avenues for cooperation will enable us to add strategic depth to our partnership.

Our partnership enhances our ability to work together and address the global challenges of our times. In addressing these challenges, Africa and India continue to reiterate their intention to ensure that the interests of developing counties are safeguarded
and that socio-economic development requirements of our various counties are guaranteed.

We urge the developed counties to take ambitious actions to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and also provide adequate financing and transfer of technology to support developing counties efforts to effectively address the impact of climate change.
We reaffirm the importance of reaching an agreement on a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol as an indispensable step to preserve the integrity of the international climate change regime. We stress the importance of the Bali Action Plan of 2007
worked out under the aegis of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in this regard. We notice the positive aspects of the Cancun Conference Climate Change negotiations in December 2010 and appeal to the developed counties to operationalise
all the institutional arrangements included in the Cancun decisions. We express our firm commitment to a balanced outcome from the climate change negotiations which are commensurate with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities
on the basis of respective capabilities, in the process of COP17 which will be held in Durban, South Africa.

We take note of the African common position on Climate Change and support efforts towards combating drought and desertification in Africa, as well as support for Africa's Great Green Wall Project.

We affirm the critical importance of South-South cooperation as an instrument that can effectively supplement existing international efforts and lead to tangible and real benefits for developing countries. We stress that South-South Cooperation should be
a supplement to North-South Cooperation and not a substitute for it. We recognize that significant diversity prevails among individual countries in Africa, about thirty three (33) of which are listed among the Least Developed Countries. Collectively, these
counties confront some of the most persistent, pervasive and complex development challenges. Accordingly, we will explore new and innovative ways to supplement the mainstream effort to assist these developing counties and look for out-of-the-box solutions.

We remain concerned with the recurrent trend of increasing global crisis that are of economic nature, such as the global food, energy and financial crisis. While recognizing the current economic recovery, we are still concerned with its sustainability.
We underline the importance of supporting stable, long-term capital flows to developing counties to simulate investment, especially in infrastructure. This will help enhance global demand, thus securing the long-term sustainability of the recovery and address
developmental imbalances.

We urge major economies to work together and enhance macro-economic policy coordination. In this context, we acknowledge the G20 process as an important forum for international economic cooperation, and request fair representation of Africa in the evolving
architecture of decision-making process in the global economic system.

We reiterate the importance of the UN Millennium Declaration and the need to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). We reaffirm our commitment to achieving the MDGs by 2015, including through technical cooperation and financial support. Sustainable
development models and unique paths of development in developing counties should be respected, including by guaranteeing the policy space of developing countries. We urge that aid commitments for developing counties must be fulfilled and that development assistance
should not be reduced. We urge the developed counties to fulfill their obligations of achieving the target of 0.7% GNI as official development assistance (ODA) to developing countries. We also support African economic programmes within the context of Programme
for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), and Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP).

We underscore the need for a comprehensive and balanced outcome of the Doha Round, in a manner that gives weight to its mandate as a "development round", based on progress already made. We reiterate the need for continuing solidarity between developing
countries in this regard. We affirm the importance of ensuring that an acceptable agreement adequately protects the concerns of developing countries with regard to livelihood, food security and rural development. Equally, concerns need to be addressed on Non-Agricultural
Market Access (NAMA) services and rules. We urge all parties to oppose all forms of protectionism and trade distorting domestic support. We remain concerned that no significant progress has been achieved in key issues of interest to developing countries including
India and those of Africa and therefore call, once more, on key players in the Doha Round to give priority to resolving all issues of critical concern to developing counties, especially regarding negotiation on agriculture.

We affirm our commitment to multilateralism and to strengthening the democratic structure of the United Nations (UN) to increase the participation of developing counties in decision-making processes. We emphasize the need for enhanced Africa-India cooperation
at the UN, the G-77 and other multilateral fora, to foster common purpose in addressing areas of mutual concern. In the context of issues relating to international peace and security, we commend efforts made by the African Union Peace and Security Council
in maintaining peace in Africa. Africa recalls, with appreciation, India's principled support to and continuing involvement with UN peacekeeping operations, especially in the African continent, India appreciates the role of African counties in maintaining
peace and security in the Continent and their participation in peace keeping missions in other parts of the world- It also commends Africa on its development of the African Standby Force, which will enhance the continent's capacity to maintain peace and security.

We take note of UN Security Council resolutions 1970 and 1973 on Libya and stress that efforts to implement them should be within the spirit and letter of those resolutions. In this regard, we call for an immediate cessation of all hostilities in Libya
and urge the parties in the conflict to strive towards a political solution through peaceful means and dialogue- We express support for the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee initiative and the African Union roadmap for the peaceful and consensual resolution
of the conflict.

Based on the strong partnership between Africa and India on international issues relating to peace and security, Africa welcomes India's election to a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the years 2011-2012. India expresses its appreciation
for the support of African States in this election in October 2010. The African members of the UN Security Council and India affirm their commitment to coordinate closely during India's tenure in the Council.

In this context, we underscore the imperative of urgent and comprehensive reform of the UN system. We share the view that the UN should function in a transparent, efficient and effective manner and that the composition of its central organs must reflect
contemporary realities. The expansion of the UN Security Council, in permanent and non-permanent categories of membership, with increased participation of developing counties in both categories, is central to the process of reform and for enhancing the credibility
of the United Nations,

India notes the common African position and the aspirations of the African counties to get their rightful place in an expanded UN Security Council as new permanent members with full rights as contained in the Ezulwini Consensus. Africa takes note of India's
position and its aspirations to become a permanent member with full rights in an expanded UN Security Council. We emphasize the need for Member States to exert utmost effort on the United Nations Security Council reform during the current session of the United
Nations General Assembly.

We recognize that the security of all nations would be enhanced by a global, non-discriminatory and verifiable elimination of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. We reaffirm our commitment to the consensus in the Final Document of the
Tenth Special Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations on Disarmament, which accorded priority to nuclear disarmament. We also express support for an International Convention Prohibiting the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Nuclear
Weapons, leading to their destruction. We call for negotiating specific steps to reduce and finally eliminate nuclear weapons, leading to a world free from all weapons of mass destruction as envisaged in the Rajiv Gandhi Action Plan of 1988. We also look forward
to the commencement of negotiations on the Treaty Banning the Production of Fissile Material for Nuclear Weapons and Other Nuclear Explosive Devices in the Conference on Disarmament.

We welcome the entry into force in July 2009, of the Africa Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty (the Pelindaba Treaty) of 1995 and the efforts towards the operationalisation of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (ACNE) in November 2010, which, among others,
will promote the peaceful application of nuclear energy and technology within Member States.

We stress the importance of addressing the threat posed by illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons through full implementation of the UN Programme of Action on SALWs and welcome the African Union's efforts towards that end.

We unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. An act of terrorism anywhere is a threat to the entire international community. We recognize the need to further strengthen international cooperation to combat global terrorism and
for compliance of all member states with all international terrorism conventions and related protocols and UN Security Council resolutions on counter-terrorism. We call on all States to cooperate with each other in prosecuting, extraditing and rendering legal
assistance with regard to acts of international terrorism. In this connection, we deplore the tragic losses arising from terrorist attacks and call for the active prosecution of the authors of such crimes and their accomplices, and urge that they be brought
to justice expeditiously. We further call on all counties to ensure that acts of cross-border terrorism do not occur, and that their territories are not made a base for terrorists. We strongly condemn kidnapping and hostage taking as well as the demands for
ransom and political concessions by terrorist groups. We express serious concern at the increase in such incidents. Taking note of the African position on the condemnation of the payment of ransom to terrorist groups, we call for the urgent need to address
this issue. We also agree to work to expeditiously finalize and adopt, a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN. We underscore the need to strengthen the implementation of AU mechanisms to prevent and combat terrorism.

We further stress the importance of addressing the threat posed by piracy off the Coast of Somalia and suffering caused by taking of hostages, and call on all States to cooperate in combating and eradicating the menace of piracy. In this context, Africa
welcomes India's support to efforts to safeguard shipping in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean from piracy.

We also pledge to work to eradicate drug trafficking, trafficking in human beings, especially women and children, organized crime and money laundering. In this regard, we call on all States to ratify and implement all relevant International Instruments
relating to these crimes.

We have reviewed, with satisfaction, the progress made in the implementation of the Africa-India Framework of Cooperation and note in this regard, the four-year Plan of Action adopted in March 2010. Work is moving apace on the various elements of this Plan
of Action, including the establishment of 21 capacity-building institutions in various countries of Africa. India is committed to substantially contribute to building African capacities through supporting education and capacity building institutions and in
enhancing value addition and processing of raw materials in Africa. Africa appreciates the Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme offered by India and believes it has the potential to increase African exports to India.

We stress that cooperation between Africa and India, as emerging from the First Africa-India Forum Summit, has been a true manifestation of South-South Cooperation. Our Endeavour to find new ways of energizing our partnership by taking into account the
emerging capabilities in Africa and India has found sustenance in the implementation of the Action Plan of our Framework of Cooperation. We deeply appreciate the implementation of the initiatives that Africa and India took since the first India - Africa Forum
Summit in April 2008, in New Delhi. We also laud the further initiatives that have been announced by the Prime Minister of India at the Second Africa-India Forum Summit in Addis Ababa in May 2011. India, on the other hand, welcomes the new spirit of association
that has facilitated these initiatives.

Our Agreement that Africa and India will go beyond bilateral linkages to strengthen partnerships with the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities of Africa, have borne fruit. The level of interaction between India and the African Union has increased
manifold, particularly with the implementation of new AIFS initiatives after the success of the Pan- African e-Network Project- The relationships with the Regional Economic Communities have also been strengthened and India's initiative to invite Africa's Regional
Economic Communities for a meeting in November 2010 was appreciated. The multi-tiered functional engagement which India has with Africa is a model for multilateral engagements around the world.

We also welcome the positive results of efforts to promote trade and investment, human resource development and infrastructure development in Africa. We commit ourselves to involving the private sector and civil society in Africa and India to widen the
scope of our partnership.

We note with satisfaction that Trade Ministers from African counties and India met on 21 May, 2011 in Addis Ababa and take note of the Joint Statement issued by the Trade Ministers and lend our support to the ideas enunciated therein as indicators of our
future cooperation. We appreciate that the Ministers had an in-depth discussion on the economic engagement between Africa and India, including the Duty Free Tariff Preference Scheme of India, cluster development initiatives and the identification of priority
sectors of partnership. We also note with satisfaction the initiatives taken by the Trade Ministers in the establishment of Trade and Investment linkages between India and Africa and welcome the constitution of the India-Africa Business Council as well as
the constitution of the annual India-Africa Trade Ministers' Dialogue. We acknowledge the common platform shared by India and Africa in the WTO Doha Round and reiterate the core principles of Special and Differential (S&D) Treatment and obtaining more preferential
treatment for all LDCs.

We recognize that this Second Africa-India Forum Summit will help to realize our common vision of a self-reliant and economically vibrant Africa and India. We are committed to work together towards a peaceful and more egalitarian international order, where
the voices of Africa and India can be heard to pursue their desire for inclusive development, both internationally and domestically. Africa is determined to partner in India's economic resurgence as India is committed to be a close partner in Africa's renaissance.

We agree to add further substance to our Framework of Cooperation and to broaden exchanges to cover all facets of our relationship. We adopt, in this context, the Africa-India Framework for Enhanced Cooperation to supplement the existing Framework. We agree
to institutionalize this Summit process. Accordingly, we agree that the next India - Africa Forum Summit will be held in 2014 in India.

The Prime Minister of India expresses his appreciation to the African Union Commission for hosting the Summit and to the Government and people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for the hospitality extended to his delegation and to all participating
leaders. The African leaders also express their appreciation to the Prime Minister of India for his participation.

Issued at Addis Ababa on May 25, 2011

]]>04-08-2011 16:23:34MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/35/Second+AfricaIndia+Forum+Summit+2011+Addis+Ababa+Declaration
MEA354857Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister to Ethiopia

Name of Agreement/MoU

Ethiopian Signatory

Indian Signatory

Agreement between Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income

H.E. Mr. Sufian Ahmed
Minister for Finance & Economic Development

Shri S.M. Krishna
External Affairs Minister

Memorandum of Understanding between National Small Industries Corporation, India and Federal Micro and Small Enterprises Development Agency, Ethiopia for mutual cooperation for the development of small industries in Ethiopia

Mr. Gebre Meskel Challa
Director General of Federal Micro and Small Enterprises Development Agency

Dr. H.P. Kumar
Chairman-cum-Managing Director of the National Small Industries Corporation

The African and Indian editors meeting in Addis Ababa on May 21, 2011 for the Africa-India Media Partnership Symposium, underscored the vital role a free and independent media plays in protecting the rights of citizens, ensuring the accountability of both
governments and the corporate sector, and promoting equitable and sustainable economic policies.

In this context, they pledged to work closely with each other to promote the widest possible respect for the freedom of the press and media, the right to free speech and the right to information in their respective countries, and to support each other should
these freedoms ever come under attack. They also resolved to promote the highest possible ethical standards for the media in their respective countries.

Taking note of the dangers journalists confront in covering conflicts – especially wars, civil wars, insurgencies, counter-insurgencies and civil disturbances – they called upon all governments and all official and non-official combatants to respect the
right of a journalist to do her or his job in conflict situations free from attacks and violence or the threat of violence and to not hinder in any way the media's attempts to report what is happening.

Recognising the political plurality, ethnic and cultural diversity which exist in both Indian and African society and the use that unscrupulous elements have made of the mass media to spread hatred and incite violence against vulnerable sections of the
population, the editors stressed the need for our media to be responsible in the way it covers conflict situations.

Given the reality of gender inequality and social marginalisation of sections of the population in our societies, active efforts should be made to ensure workplace diversity in the media and especially the adequate representation of women at all levels
of the editorial hierarchy.

In order to build a long-term partnership between the African and Indian media, the editors decided to further the following initiatives among themselves and to recommend that the following initiatives may be considered by the Indian government, in consultation
and cooperation with African governments:

Constitute ourselves as the African-Indian Editors Forum, initially as an email group, and make plans to meet again later in New Delhi in 2011 to take our media partnership proposals further.

Africa-India media portal: Work together to strengthen the existing India Africa Connect website (http://www/indiaafricaconnect.in) and develop it as a portal dedicated to providing journalists with information
and resources about the partnership between Africa and India in all fields, including art and culture. Indian embassies in Africa to be encouraged to provide relevant information in a timely fashion.

Experts database: As part of the portal initiative, create a database of African and Indian journalists, editors and experts that the media can turn to for information and perspective when required.

Media visits: Organise more visits of Indian journalists to Africa and African journalists to India. These short familiarisation visits could be linked to specific political or cultural events or economic projects
and institutions. These would increase awareness in the African media of India's economic capabilities and also educate Indian journalists about the economic and political strides being made in Africa, cultural similarities etc.

Media exchange: There should be a fellowship/exchange/internship programme which allows newspapers and TV channels in India and Africa to send journalists work in each other's organisations for periods ranging
from a several weeks to a few months.

Media training: There should be fully-funded slots in Indian media schools for students from Africa.

Women journalists: In all programmes of exchange, training, etc., there should be a special emphasis on encouraging women applicants.

Capacity building: Work towards the establishment of an India-Africa College of Journalism at a suitable location in Africa either as part of existing proposals for India-Africa centres of excellence and training
or as a new initiative.

Content linkage: Using the portal to begin with, and in collaboration with major newspapers, a pool of non-copyrighted material (news, oped articles) could be created which other newspapers in Africa and India
could use.

News Agency: Explore the feasibility of establishing a news agency dedicated to collecting and disseminating news and views about Africa-India relations and developments.

Stationing of correspondents: Strengthen and support existing proposal to subsidise the stationing of correspondents in key African regions and also of one or more African correspondents in India.

Technical tie-ups in printing, publishing, media economics: Explore the scope for Indian newspaper houses to work with African partners or countries to ensure the upgrading of printing, publishing technologies
in a cost-effective manner.

Access to footage: Develop low-cost methods of sharing footage between TV channels in Africa and India on the basis of consultation between stakeholders on both sides.

TV programming: Develop special weekly programming on Indian and African TV – similar to CNN's Inside Africa – which showcases success stories or events and other content reflecting the growing Africa-India
partnership, and also introduces viewers on both sides to each other's lifestyle, culture etc.

Other suggestions of a general, non-media specific nature include:

Opening an office of the African Union in India

Making use of Bollywood, encouraging the growth of the African movie industry, using African locations to shoot Bollywood films

Organise regular events which showcase African music and culture in India including through a regular ‘Africa Month' as well as ‘India Month' in a different African country or region every year.

Under the resumed dialogue process between Pakistan and India, delegations of the two countries met in Rawalpindi from 20-21 May 2011 to discuss the Sir Creek Issue. The Pakistan delegation was led by Rear Admiral Shah Sohail Masood, Additional Secretary,
Ministry of Defence. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. S. Subba Rao, Surveyor General of India. During the visit, the Indian delegation also called on Lt. Gen. Syed Athar Ali, Secretary Defence.

The talks were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. The two sides discussed the Pakistan-India land boundary in the Sir Creek area and the delimitation of International Maritime Boundary between Pakistan and India.

Both sides exchanged non-papers in order to take their discussions forward, with a view to finding an amicable settlement of the issue. They agreed to meet again at a mutually convenient date.

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, His Excellency Islam Abduganievich Karimov, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan paid a State visit to India on 17-18 May 2011. During the State visit, the President of the Republic
of Uzbekistan held talks with Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of the Republic of India and with Dr.Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India. Mr. Hamid Ansari, Vice-President of India, Mr. S.M.Krishna, External Affairs Minister and Mrs. Sushma Swaraj,
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha called on President Islam A. Karimov.

The sides noted that the visit of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to India was a welcome continuation of the tradition of regular exchange of high level visits between India and Uzbekistan and was testimony to the close historical and deep cultural
ties between the two countries. The sides noted with satisfaction that the discussions took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

The sides reviewed the current status of the entire gamut of bilateral relations and exchanged views on important regional and international issues. They noted the similarity of their positions on bilateral, regional and global issues. The sides agreed
that the Foreign Ministries of both countries would continue to hold regular consultations, including exchange of visits by their Ministers.

The sides noted with satisfaction that their relations serve their long term national interest and at the same time strengthen bilateral cooperation in accordance with the provisions of the UN Charter, the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial
integrity and non-interference in internal affairs.

The sides noted that India and Uzbekistan have stakes in mutual progress and prosperity, and expressed their determination to imbue greater dynamism to the relationship through all-round cooperation and engagement. Both leaders declared that bilateral relations
had been elevated to the level of a long term and strategic partnership based on equality and mutual understanding. This strategic partnership would encompass active cooperation in a wide spectrum of areas including political, economic, counter-terrorism,
education, health, human resource development, science and technology, tourism and culture.

The sides noted with satisfaction the conclusion of bilateral documents during the visit on cooperation in a range of areas including Information Technology, Pharmaceuticals, Standardization, Small and Medium Enterprises, Coal gasification, Oil & Gas, Science
&Technology, Textiles and Banking.

The sides agreed that the current level of bilateral trade was below the existing potential and underlined the need for increasing the volume of mutual trade and expanding its range. They expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the 9th session of the
India-Uzbek Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation held on May 4-5, 2011 in Tashkent, and declared the necessity of enhancing bilateral trade, economic and investment cooperation in all areas of mutual
interest.

The sides noted opportunities for further significant growth of volumes and diversification of the basket of mutual trade and agreed that the organization of trade fairs in the territories of the two states shall also contribute to the growth of mutual
trade. They called upon their respective business communities to avail opportunities for mutually beneficial investments for implementation of major joint projects in promising sectors such as information technology and telecommunications ; pharmaceuticals
and biotechnology; production of finished textile, silk and leather goods ; exploration and mining of hydrocarbons; production of household chemicals and plant protection chemicals ; and tourism.

The sides noted the importance of strengthening the financial infrastructure for promoting trade and investment. They welcomed in this context the MoU between the EXIM Bank of India and the National Bank of Uzbekistan, aimed at streamlining the flow of
credit. They also welcomed the initialling of the Protocol amending the bilateral Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement which would help promote investment and cross-border movement of goods, services and technology between the two countries.

The Uzbek side welcomed the desire of Indian companies to expand investment cooperation in sectors with advanced industrial potential corresponding to international standards. The Uzbek side informed the Indian side of opportunities for investment in joint
projects of mutual interest, in the Free Industrial-Economic Zone "Navoi", where unprecedented favourable conditions for foreign investors had been created. Both sides also noted the capacities of the transcontinental intermodal hub at Navoi airport as a transshipment
transit point, which provided favourable terms of transportation of cargo to the countries of Europe, CIS, the Middle East and other regions. More than 40 flights in a week originated from this international hub to key transit centers of the world, including
such industrial centers of India as Delhi and Mumbai.

The sides highlighted the absence of surface transport connectivity as one of the reasons for the low level of trade between the two countries. To resolve these connectivity problems, the sides discussed implementation of such projects as the Trans-Afghan
corridor and the project to establish the Central Asia-Persian Gulf corridor. The implementation of these projects may considerably cut down the distance and costs for transportation of goods between Uzbekistan and India, as well as provide Afghanistan the
opportunity to integrate into the regional system of transport connectivity. The sides agreed to continue their work in terms of looking for various options for surface connectivity between India and Uzbekistan.

The sides noted the prospects of scientific and technical cooperation between the scientific centers of the two countries on organization of joint researches in the spheres of biotechnology, material science, solar power, laser technologies, and automation
of production process.

The sides noted the potential of information technology for the improvement of people's lives. The Uzbek side welcomed activities of the Jawaharlal Nehru Uzbek-Indian Centre for Information Technology in Tashkent and noted that the sides had enormous potential
to promote cooperation in this sphere.

The sides agreed to intensify contacts between educational institutions of both countries and to increase cooperation in human resources development.

The sides stressed the need to further intensify cultural cooperation, which would contribute to strengthening ties between their peoples.

The sides resolutely condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and reaffirmed that international terrorism was a threat to global peace and security. It was noted with satisfaction that the fourth meeting of the Indo-Uzbek Joint Working Group
on combating international terrorism (February 2011, New Delhi) discussed several issues of security and counter-terrorism including exchange of information, data, financing of terrorism and related matters. They emphasized the need for adoption of the "Comprehensive
Convention on International Terrorism" in the near future. The sides expressed the intention in this context to continue consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and to coordinate their efforts within the framework of the JWG on Combating International
Terrorism.

The sides discussed the continuing unstable situation in Afghanistan and the challenges emanating from the region, including drug trafficking, and reaffirmed the importance of early establishment of peace and stability in the country.

The sides expressed their strong commitment to multilateralism, with the United Nations playing a central role in dealing with global challenges and threats. They reaffirmed their commitment to the reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security
Council, through its expansion in the permanent and non-permanent categories, with increased representation of developing countries in both, in order to improve its efficiency, representativeness, and legitimacy, and for it to better meet the contemporary
challenges faced by the international community. The Uzbek side reiterated its support for India’s candidature for permanent membership of an expanded Security Council.

The Sides underscored the importance of further strengthening mutual cooperation in the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, taking into account the active participation of the sides in the activity of this Organization.

India welcomed the entry into force of the Nuclear Weapon Free Zone in Central Asia and was prepared to extend the necessary security assurances.

H.E. Mr. Islam Karimov, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, expressed gratitude to the Indian leadership and to the peoples of India for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to him and to the Uzbekistan delegation during his State visit to the
Republic of India. He invited Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of the Republic of India, to visit the Republic of Uzbekistan. The President of Uzbekistan also invited Dr. Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India, to visit Uzbekistan. The invitations
were accepted with pleasure.

New Delhi
May 18, 2011
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MEA49645180Factsheet of Agreements signed during the State Visit of the President of Uzbekistan

Sr.No.

Agreements

Scope of Agreement /MoU

1.

Memorandum of Cooperation on Program Development of Joint Scientific and Applied Research in Priority Fields between the Department of Science & Technology, Government of the Republic of India and the Committee for Coordination of S&T Development
under the Cabinet of Ministers, Republic of Uzbekistan for the period 2012-2020

The Memorandum aims to enhance cooperation in the field of science and technology through joint projects, joint workshops, exploratory visits and research fellowships. Areas identified include (i) solar & bio-energy, (ii) pharmaceuticals,
(iii) nuclear energy, (iv) nanotechnology, (v) space science, (v) seismology etc. The joint projects shall be mutually identified based on common interest and shall be funded jointly. Under the Memorandum, India will also offer up to 10 fellowships to young
Uzbek scholars every year for 6 months in Indian R&D institutions.

2.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (Department of Information Technology) of the Republic of India and the Communications and Information Agency of Uzbekistan for Cooperation in the
field of Information Technology

IT is a critical area of collaboration between India and Uzbekistan. The MoU aims to build a partnership in the IT sector through facilitating growth of bilateral investments, joint initiatives and technology development. The broad
areas of cooperation are : industry-to-industry cooperation, information exchange and skill development. The implementation of the MoU is to be overseen by the India-Uzbekistan Joint Working Group (JWG) on Information Technology. The JWG is to hold regular
consultations and identify future plans and activities. The IPR's arising out of the joint projects conducted under this MoU shall be held jointly by both sides.

3.

Memorandum of Understanding

Uzbekistan is rich in cotton with a production of over one million tonnes

between the Ministry of Textiles, Republic of India and the Ministry of Foreign Economic Affairs, Investments and Trade for Cooperation in the Textile Sector

per annum. It has plans to significantly enhance cotton processing capacity. The MoU aims at developing such capacity as also developing the textiles and clothing industry in both countries. It includes cooperation in cotton, sericulture
and fashion industries. The vehicles of joint development proposed include formation of joint trade missions, investment cooperation, assistance in research and development, participation in each other’s exhibitions and formation of a JWG.

Other Agreements involving government entities concluded on the margins of the visit

4.

Joint Statement on Strategic partnership between the Republic of India and the Republic of Uzbekistan

The joint statement declares a strategic partnership between India and Uzbekistan, details the outcomes of the State Visit and outlines a vision for future cooperation. (It will be released on the MEA website).

5.

Mutual Cooperation Agreement between National Small Industries Corporation, India and Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan

Small and Medium enterprise collaboration is seen as a key area to bolster economic cooperation. The agreement aims to facilitate contacts between small enterprises from the two countries. Areas of cooperation include (i) carrying
out surveys for identifying thrust areas; (ii) arranging development programmes; (iii) facilitating technology transfer from India to Uzbekistan in specific industrial sectors; and (iv) organizing business missions. A key component of the agreement is to set
up "Incubator Centres" in Uzbekistan, where Uzbek entrepreneurs shall be imparted training.

6.

Memorandum of Understanding between Open Joint-Stock Company Uzbeko’mir (Uzbekcoal) and GAIL

Uzbekistan has developed advanced technologies in coal gasification. The MoU envisages collaboration in underground coal gasification in Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The MoU also envisages establishment of a Joint Working Group, and
organising visit of specialists of Uzbekistan to India. The MoU also forms the basis for concluding mutually beneficial agreements in prospective projects in the sphere of underground coal

gasification in the future.

7.

Memorandum of Understanding between Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan on Establishment of an India-Uzbekistan Entrepreneurship Development Centre

Development of entrepreneurs helps make job creators rather than job seekers in economies. The MoU aims to establish an Uzbekistan-India Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Tashkent (UIEDC) with the objective of nurturing entrepreneurial
talent in Uzbekistan.

8.

Agreement on Establishment of Joint Business Council between the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan

The agreement provides for the establishment of a Joint Business Council as a regular and recognized forum for discussion on promotion of economic activities between businessmen and industrialists of the two countries.

9.

Memorandum of Understanding between ONGC Videsh Limited and Uzbekneftegaz on Cooperation in Hydrocarbon Sector

Uzbekistan has vast oil and gas reserves estimated at 594 million barrels and 6.25 trillion cubic meters respectively. The MOU envisages collaboration in oil & gas exploration and production activities; joint participation in oil
producing assets in Uzbekistan and in third countries; cooperation in basic and applied research and development in the hydrocarbon sector; and capacity building for professionals and technicians working in the hydrocarbon sector. The activities indicated
in the MoU would be coordinated by a Joint Working Group.

10.

Action plan of activities under the protocol between India Tourism

A steady rise in Uzbek tourists to India has not been matched by a similar rise in Indian tourists going to Uzbekistan. The Action Plan between the

Development Corporation (ITDC) and the /Uzbek national company 'Uzbektourism'

National Company 'Uzbektourism' of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) of the Republic of India under the Protocol of Intention signed in 2005 between both parties aims at promotion of
tourism through establishing country offices in each other's countries, and undertaking joint promotional activities.

11.

Memorandum of Understanding between the Bureau of Indian Standards and the Agency for Standardization, Metrology and Certification of Uzbekistan

Standardization is an instrument of promoting bilateral economic exchanges. The MoU aims to encourage and promote bilateral cooperation in the areas of standardization; certification; exchange of technical information and training
of qualified personnel on a reciprocal basis.

12.

Agreement for Cooperation between Export Import Bank of India and National Bank for Foreign Economic Activity of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Credit plays a critical role in promoting trade and investment. The MoU envisages exchange of information in the areas of trade and financing of projects, especially in the fields of road-building, house construction and oil & gas
sector, which are backed by State guarantees. The two sides will also pool their resources for collaborative research and identification of projects in Uzbekistan.

13.

Memorandum of Understanding between Jamia Millia Islamia University and Al-Biruni Institute of Oriental Studies of Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan

India and Uzbekistan have had a strong tradition of academic research in our common civilizational heritage. Under the MoU, the two academic institutions will organise joint seminars, exchange scholars and faculty, share information
and articles and undertake collaborative research & joint projects.

14.

Protocol on introducing amendments and addenda into the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and

Taxation agreements help create the financial infrastructure to promote trade and investment. The existing Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) was signed between India and Uzbekistan on 29 July 1993. The proposed protocol
amends the article on exchange of information on India­

the Government of the Republic of India on avoidance of double taxation and preventing evasion from taxation of income and capital signed on July29, 1993

Uzbekistan DTAA to meet the internationally accepted standards and other articles for rationalizing the withholding of tax rates in line with our treaty negotiations with other countries to promote investment and cross-border movement
of goods, services and technology.

Business Contracts

Telecom & IT

15.

Memorandum of Understanding between "Himachal Futuristic Communication Ltd." and national holding company "Uzbekneftegaz" for production of optic cables

Investment project

16.

Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation for production of smart-phone, tablet computers and Internet accessories between "Uzbek telecom" and Indian company "Olive telecommunication Ltd."

Investment project

17.

Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the sphere of development and production of alternative means of electricity equipments (solar hybrid technology) between "Uzbektelecom" and Indian company "Shyamapair India Ltd."

Investment project

18.

Memorandum of Cooperation for development and production of digital TV receivers between "Telemax Electornix" and Indian company "Supersoft System"

Investment project

Pharmaceuticals

19.

Framework agreement on realization of Investment project for production of substances and medical ingredients between "Uzpharmsanoat" and Indian company "Sharon Biomedicine ".

Investment project.

20.

Memorandum of Cooperation for establishment of joint venture for production of hormonal medicines between "Uzpharmsanoat" and Indian company "Sankyo"

Joint Venture

21.

Framework agreement on realization of Investment project on production of Anti-tuberculosis and hormonal medicines between "Uzpharmsanoat" and Indian company "Mikro Baks".

Joint venture for production of medicines

22.

Memorandum of Cooperation on establishment of a Joint Venture for production of oncological (cancer) and Anti Virus medicines between "Uzpharmsanoat" and the Indian company "Medicamen Biotex"

Joint venture

23.

Memorandum of Cooperation for establishment of joint venture for medicines and drugs (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory etc.) between "Uzpharmsanoat" and "VMG Pharmaceuticals"

Agreement on implementing investment project for organizing production of 3000 tons of yarn in Khorezm region of Uzbekistan between "Uzbekengilsanoat" and Indian company "Inovatis"

Investment project

26.

Memorandum for realization of Investment project for establishment of enterprise for production of one million meter silk fabric in Namangan region of Uzbekistan between "Uzbekengilsanoat" and Indian company "Vinegroi"

Investment project

27.

Memorandum for realization of investment project for production of 400,000 ready-made garments and 2 million meter fabric in Tashkent region between "Uzbekengilsanoat" and "Ginni International"

Investment project

28.

Memorandum for establishment of Enterprise for production of 3000 pieces of leather material and leather readymade garments and accessories in Andijan region of Uzbekistan between "Uzbekcharmpoiabzali" and Indian company "Fashion
Factory International"

Investment project

29.

Memorandum of Cooperation for establishment of Textile production facility for processing of 4000 tonnes cotton fibre in Samarkand region of Uzbekistan between "Uzbekengilsanoat" and Indian company "Cosmos International"

Investment project

30.

Memorandum for establishment of service centre

Investment project

for repair and service of dyeing and finishing equipment in Tashkent between "Uzbekengilsanoat" and Indian company "Harish Group"

Chemicals & fertilizers

31.

Joint Venture for production of chemical material for protection of plants at the premises of Novoi Electrochemical factory between "Uzkhimesanoat" and Indian company "Coromondel".

Joint Venture

32.

Modernisation and reconstruction of facility for production of Ammonia at Fergana-azot between "Uzkhimesanoat" and Indian company "Coromondel"

Investment project

33.

Agreement for cooperation on establishment of joint venture for 25,000 ton shampoo, synthetic detergents, toothpaste and cleaning material between "Uzkhimesanoat" and Indian company "Cosmos International"

Joint Venture

34

Memorandum of Cooperation for supply of 50,000 tonnes of Urea and 10,000 ton potassium chloride to India between 2011-2015 between "Markazsanoat Export" and Indian company "Birla Holding"

Delegation-level talks, led by the two External Affairs Ministers, were held on May 16, 2011. The two sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations. They assessed the developments that had taken place since the visit of the President of Sri Lanka
to India in June, 2010 and the bilateral Joint Commission meeting at the level of the Ministers of External Affairs held in Colombo in November, 2010. Issues relating to regional and international issues of common concern were also discussed.

Both sides agreed that the end of armed conflict in Sri Lanka created a historic opportunity to address all outstanding issues in a spirit of understanding and mutual accommodation imbued with political vision to work towards genuine national reconciliation.
In this context, the External Affairs Minister of Sri Lanka affirmed his Government’s commitment to ensuring expeditious and concrete progress in the ongoing dialogue between the Government of Sri Lanka and representatives of Tamil parties. A devolution package,
building upon the 13th Amendment, would contribute towards creating the necessary conditions for such reconciliation.

The Minister of External Affairs of Sri Lanka reiterated the commitment of his Government to continue to address issues related to resettlement and reconciliation in a focused and progressive manner. In this regard the Minister of External Affairs of Sri
Lanka referred to the work of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) and set out the steps taken by the Inter-Agency Advisory Committee (IAAC) chaired by the Attorney General in implementing the Interim Recommendations of the LLRC in relation
to detention, law and order, administration and language issues and socio-economic and livelihood issues. In response, The External Affairs Minister of India urged the expeditious implementation of measures by the Government of Sri Lanka, to ensure resettlement
and genuine reconciliation, including early return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their respective homes, early withdrawal of emergency regulations, investigations into allegations of human rights violations, restoration of normalcy in affected
areas and redress of humanitarian concerns of affected families.

The External Affairs Minister of Sri Lanka expressed appreciation of the humanitarian and other assistance including demining and livelihood support measures extended by the Government of India for early relief and resettlement of IDPs. In this context,
both sides noted that forward movement had taken place towards construction of houses for IDPs and other infrastructure development projects, including rehabilitation of Kankesanthurai harbour, rehabilitation of Palaly Airport, repair and construction of hospital
and schools, setting up of Vocational Training Centres, construction of the Cultural Centre in Jaffna, restoration of railway lines and restoration of the Duraiappah stadium in Jaffna.

Expressing satisfaction at the progress of work on various railway projects in Sri Lanka undertaken with India’s assistance, both sides agreed to facilitate the work for their timely completion. In keeping with the understanding contained in the Joint Declaration
of June 9, 2010, both sides agreed to the early conclusion of Agreements related to the Joint Venture Thermal Power Project between NTPC and CEB at Sampur, Trincomalee; finalisation of remaining agreements including reconstruction of the Palali-KKS railway
line, establishment of a new signalling and telecommunication system and procurement of rolling stock from India; and to continue ongoing dialogue for early finalisation of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Progress on the feasibility
study for the interconnection of India Sri Lanka electricity grids was reviewed. It was also agreed to enhance cooperation in the energy sector and to promote dialogue on security and defence issues of relevance to the bilateral relationship.

Reviewing the outcome of the Joint Working Group meeting on Fisheries held in New Delhi on 28-29 March, 2011, both sides agreed that the use of force could not be justified under any circumstances and that all fishermen should be treated in a humane manner.
The Indian side conveyed that the incidents of continued violence against Indian fishermen in the vicinity of Sri Lanka were of serious concern. In this context, both sides noted that the Joint Statement on Fishing Arrangements of 26th October 2008 had led
to a decrease in violent incidents. Furthermore, the two sides emphasised the importance of an early conclusion of the draft Memorandum of Understanding on Development and Cooperation in the field of Fisheries between India and Sri Lanka.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to promote cultural and people-to-people contacts and enhance connectivity including through early operationalisation of the ferry services between Tuticorin and Colombo and Rameswaram and Talaimannar. The two sides
also agreed to encourage two-way flow of investments including in the development of ports and ports related services in Sri Lanka.

Both countries agreed on the need for reform of the UN Security Council.

Sri Lanka reiterated its strong support for India’s legitimate claim for permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council.

Under the resumed dialogue process between India and Pakistan, delegations of the two countries met in Islamabad from 12-13 May 2011 to discuss the Tulbul Navigation project/Wullar Barrage. The Pakistan delegation was led by Mr. Javed Iqbal, Secretary,
Ministry of Water and Power, Government of Pakistan and the Indian delegation was led by Mr. Dhruv Vijai Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India. Secretary Singh and members of the Indian delegation also called on Syed Naveed Qamar,
Minister for Water and Power, Government of Pakistan.

The talks were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. The two sides reiterated their commitment to bilateral engagement in a spirit of constructive cooperation. They discussed their respective positions on the Tulbul Navigation Project / Wullar Barrage
while reaffirming the commitment to the Indus Waters Treaty 1960.

Both sides emphasised the need for an early and amicable resolution of the issue within the ambit of the Indus Waters Treaty. In order to address the concerns of both countries, it was agreed that the Indian side shall forward comprehensive technical data
to Pakistan within one month. The Pakistan side shall examine the said data and furnish its views to the Indian side by 15 September 2011.Both sides further agreed to take the matter forward in the light of the outcome of such technical consultations and in
accordance with the provisions of the Indus Waters Treaty.

Islamabad
May 13, 2011
]]>15-11-2011 12:24:07MEA Adminhttp://mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/4999/Joint+Statement+of+IndiaPakistan+Talks+on+Tulbul+Navigation+ProjectWullar+Barrage
MEA49995007Joint Declaration between India and Afghanistan on the occasion of the visit of Prime Minister of IndiaAt the invitation of His Excellency Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, paid an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

During the visit, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh held detailed discussions with H.E. President Hamid Karzai on a wide range of bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The two sides recognized the ancient, historical and traditional ties that have existed between the two countries for centuries, and their mutual desire for close cooperation to strengthen and develop these ties for mutual benefit. Drawing upon their rich and
fruitful tradition of cooperation in various fields since the establishment of their diplomatic relations, and emphasizing the fundamental and lasting importance of the Treaty of Friendship between the Government of India and the Royal Government of Afghanistan
of 04 January 1950, and subsequent Agreements and Joint Statements, the two sides agreed that the further comprehensive development of their bilateral strategic ties would promote progress and prosperity in both countries and the region as a whole.

The two sides agreed to impart a long term commitment to their multifaceted bilateral relations and to actively develop them in the years ahead. India and Afghanistan confirmed their adherence to the common ideals of peace, democracy, inclusive development,
rule of law, non-violence, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and underlined their shared commitment to combating terrorism that threatens both countries as well as the region and the world as a whole. The two leaders shared their vision of Afghanistan
as an independent, democratic, stable and prosperous country.

Reaffirming their commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, India and Afghanistan decided to establish a Strategic Partnership covering all areas of mutual interest. Based on mutual understanding and long term trust in each other,
this Partnership envisages the elevation of their multifaceted ties to a higher level, both in the bilateral field and in the international arena.

The two sides declared that the Strategic Partnership between the two countries is based upon the principles of sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of States, non-interference in their internal affairs, mutual respect and mutual benefit.

The two sides decided to hold follow up discussions in the near future towards preparation of a Strategic Partnership document between the two countries. The Strategic Partnership will be implemented under the framework of a Partnership Council. The Council
will be headed by the Foreign Ministers of both the countries and will meet annually. It will consist of separate Joint Working Groups (JWGs) on designated issues of common concern.

The two sides agreed that the Strategic Partnership between India and Afghanistan will include various facets of the bilateral relationship.

In the political sphere, the two sides agreed to hold regular Summit level meetings, institutionalized dialogues at various levels, regular consultations on peace and security, and closer cooperation and coordination at the United Nations and other international
and regional fora.

In the area of economics and commerce, the two sides decided to enter into a Strategic Economic Partnership, recognizing the advantages of closer economic integration with the South Asian market and the region. They agreed to explore greater cooperation in
sectors such as mining, metallurgy, fuel and energy, information technology, communications and transport, and also jointly explore the possibilities of regional trading arrangements with other countries. The two countries agreed on the importance of regional
projects such as TAPI, in promoting regional integration.

The two sides agreed to enhance and expand cooperation in the field of education & human resource capacity development, including through expanded opportunities for education and training for Afghan students in India and a significant expansion of the ongoing
Small Development Projects (SDPs) scheme for grass-root level development in all parts of Afghanistan, especially remote and rural areas, and for the welfare particularly of Afghan women and children.

The Indian side announced an additional outlay of US$ 500 million for these and other projects to be decided in consultation with Afghan partners making their total development commitment to Afghanistan US $ 2 billion. The Afghan side expressed gratitude to
India for its commitment to Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development and for its generous support over the past ten years, including the new announcement of an additional US$ 500 million to its past contribution.

The two sides also emphasized the importance of parliamentary exchanges, and those in the area of media, culture, youth, civil society and people-to-people relations, to provide further substance to the Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

The two sides agreed that regional economic cooperation, with a view to assisting Afghanistan in emerging as a land bridge and trade, transportation and energy hub connecting Central and South Asia by enabling free and more unfettered transport and transit
linkages would be in the interest of the country and the region as a whole. In this context, the two sides agreed on the need to explore regional infrastructure development projects and further energize cooperation under the framework of the South Asian Association
of Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

The two sides also agreed that an important part of their Strategic Partnership would be cooperation in the area of security, law enforcement and justice, including an enhanced focus on cooperation in the fight against international terrorism, organised
crime, and illegal trafficking in narcotics, and money-laundering.

The two sides affirmed that their Strategic Partnership was not directed against any other State or group of States.

During the visit, the Pakistani side shared the lists of Indian Fishermen and civilian prisoners. Consular Access was conducted in respect of some of the fishermen and prisoners on the spot. Further it was recommended by the Committee to reconcile the figures
of the prisoners and the fishermen at the earliest and to allow consular access to rest of the fishermen and prisoners in the second week of May 2011.

The Committee appreciated the release of 89 fishermen by Pakistani authorities and 1 Pakistani fisherman and 44 civil prisoners by Indian authorities. The Committee also appreciated the recommendations of the Home/Interior Secretary level talks held on
28-29 March 2011 at New Delhi to task the Coast Guard of India and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency to work on setting up a mechanism for release of inadvertent crossers (fishermen) and their boats on the same lines as the inadvertent crossers on land. The
Group will submit its report to the Home/Interior Secretaries before the next round of Talks.

The Committee suggested that the Nationality verification process should be facilitated and all those prisoners who have completed their sentences and whose travel documents are available should be repatriated to their respective countries at the earliest.

The Committee also recommended humane approach in dealing with the cases of fishermen, women and juvenile prisoners, prisoners terminally ill or suffering from serious illness or physical disability and mentally disabled persons.

The Committee also recommended that all the prisoners shall be provided legal aid at all stages of their cases by the respective government.

The Committee suggested that the next visit to Indian jails by the Committee may be scheduled preferably during the second half of June, 2011 subject to the confirmation of dates by both the sides through diplomatic channels at an early date.

His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, paid an Official Visit to Kazakhstan on 15-16 April, 2011 on the invitation of His Excellency Mr. Nursultan Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

During the visit Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of the Republic of India held discussions with Mr. N. Nazarbayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and met with Prime Minister Mr. K. Massimov. The leaders noted with satisfaction the high level
of relation between India and Kazakhstan and expressed their firm commitment to further consolidate the strategic partnership, the foundation for which was laid during the State Visit of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan N. Nazarbayev to the Republic
of India in January, 2009.

Prime Minister of the Republic of India and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan met in a friendly atmosphere and exchanged views on India-Kazakhstan relations, as well as on international and regional issues. They noted the convergence of their views
on most of these issues.

Prime Minister of the Republic of India appreciated the important role of the Republic of Kazakhstan promoting regional and international peace & security, successful chairmanship of Kazakhstan of the OSCE in 2010, and the stable political and economic
development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which was reflected in the results of the Presidential Elections held on 3 April, 2011.

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan appreciated the growing role of the Republic of India in world affairs, which has been contributing to strengthening peace, stability and mutual understanding between peoples, as well as India’s ever-growing political,
economic, and scientific stature and potential.

The sides stressed that the consistent growth in India-Kazakhstan relations has been promoted by recent meetings at the highest and senior levels, and appreciated increasing mutual understanding and trust, expansion of cooperation in the spheres of trade,
economy, energy, socio-cultural activities as well as interaction on international and regional issues. The sides decided to reinvigorate mechanisms for regular meetings at the level of Ministers of the two countries.

The sides expressed satisfaction with the activity of India-Kazakhstan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical, Industrial and Cultural Cooperation. The sides resolved to improve the mechanism of the Commission’s activity
through increasing its coordinating role in different spheres of interaction.

The sides noted with satisfaction the progress in various fields of cooperation. They welcomed the signing of the "Joint Action Plan” on furthering the strategic partnership between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Republic
of Kazakhstan ("Road Map”) for the period of 2011-2014.

The sides highly appreciated the signing of the Agreement on Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The sides noted the need for expansion of mutually
beneficial cooperation in this area while adhering to their existing obligations under multilateral nuclear regimes.

The sides expressed satisfaction with signing of a Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Civil Matters between the Republic of India and the Republic of Kazakhstan which promotes interaction in legal issues.

The sides agreed on the importance of cooperation in food security and welcomed the signing of the Agreement on cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors.

The sides welcomed the signing of the Memorandum in the area of information security as also the Indian initiative to set up a Indian-Kazakhstan Center of Excellence in the Eurasian University in Astana.

The sides underlined the importance of cooperation in the energy sector to be developed on the basis of equal rights and mutual benefit. The sides expressed satisfaction at the signing of a package of documents between Indian company "ONGC Videsh Limited”
and "NC "KazMunaiGaz” JSC on joint exploration of the "Satpayev” oil block.

The sides noted the need to enhance interaction in implementation of prospective projects in the area of exploration of new oil and gas deposits, oil refining and petrochemicals, as well as transportation of hydrocarbons, and establishment of science-based
industries in the Republic of Kazakhstan with the application of Indian know-how and new technologies.

The sides noted with satisfaction the establishment of cooperation between Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the National Space Agency of Kazakhstan (NSAC), and agreed to work towards fruitful cooperation in the field of space.

The sides noted their interest in continued interaction in healthcare and medicine, science and technology, including nano, bio and innovative technologies.

The Republic of Kazakhstan recognized India’s achievements in the pharmaceuticals sector and welcomed joint ventures in Kazakhstan for production of high quality pharmaceutical drugs.

The sides welcomed development of cultural and people-to-people contacts and reiterated their intention to strengthen cooperation in educational, scientific, technical, cultural, tourism and other spheres. They expressed readiness to exchange experts, hold
days of culture, exhibitions, symposiums and other events.

The sides noted the importance of identifying secure and cost-effective transport connectivity between the two countries, including for transportation of cargo with the participation of transit countries.

The sides agreed to enhance collaboration in international economic and financial organizations and to use new opportunities arising as a result of integration processes in the global economy, for the benefit of both countries.

The sides expressed interest in strengthening contacts and coordination in international and regional organizations (UN, SCO, CICA and ACD). They emphasized that continuous strengthening of cooperation in the framework of these multilateral structures should
contribute to stability and development in the region and in the world.

The sides expressed interest in the early settlement of the Afghanistan situation and positively assessed the contribution by both countries to the reconstruction in Afghanistan. They agreed that the global community had rightly noted in the Kabul Communiqué
(July 2010) the importance of ensuring that terrorists were denied sanctuaries. They also underscored the importance of eliminating the narco-trafficking infrastructure that still existed in that country. The sides further assessed that for peace and stability
to be restored, it was essential that renewed efforts were made to sufficiently build up the capacity of the Afghan National Security Forces.

The sides reaffirmed their view that international terrorism was a serious threat to global peace and security and condemned those who supported terrorism. They strongly condemned the recent act of terrorism (11 April 2011) in the Minsk Metro station, which
had led to the loss of several innocent lives and had left hundreds of people injured. They hoped that the perpetrators of this heinous crime would be speedily brought to justice.

The Republic of India highly appreciated the Chairmanship of the Republic of Kazakhstan of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and noted that the forthcoming Jubilee meeting of the Council of Heads of member-states of SCO dedicated to the 10th anniversary
of the Organization to be held in Astana on 15th June 2011 would become a milestone event in the further development of the SCO. The Republic of Kazakhstan welcomed India’s constructive participation in the SCO as an observer country and expressed support
for India’s intention to play a larger role in the organization.

The Republic of India highly appreciated the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to convene a Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia – an important forum for the maintenance of peace, stability and security
in Asian continent. The Republic of Kazakhstan noted that the Republic of India had been actively and constructively participating in the CICA.

The Republic of India welcomed the forthcoming Chairmanship of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the 38th Council of Foreign Affairs Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Conference. It expressed confidence that the Republic of Kazakhstan would play a balanced
and constructive role in the functioning of the OIC.

The sides affirmed the need to strengthen the UN role in international affairs and consider the organization as a universal tool in the implementation of equitable relations among the members of international community as well as strengthening stability
and security in the world. The Republic of Kazakhstan reaffirmed support of the candidature of the Republic of India for permanent membership in the UN Security Council. Noting the strong credentials of Kazakhstan, the Republic of India expressed support to
the candidature of the Republic of Kazakhstan for the non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council for 2017-2018. The sides agreed to support each other within the framework of UN and other multilateral fora.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of India Dr Manmohan Singh expressed deep gratitude to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Mr. N. Nazarbayev and to the Kazakhstan side for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to him and to the Indian delegation
during his official visit to Kazakhstan.

The three Agreements are to give effect to the transfer of participating interest in the Satpayev Exploration Block from "Kazmunaigas” (KMG) to ONGC Videsh Ltd. (OVL). -Participating Share Assignment Agreement defines transfer of 25% stake
from KMG to OVL and terms governing this transfer. -Carry Agreement defines the key features of OVL’s "carry” and KMG’s repayment of the carried amount in case of commercial discovery and development of the discovered fields. -Joint Operating Agreement defines
the relationship between the Parties and the way operations are to be conducted. Satpayev exploration block, located in the Kazakhstan sector of the Caspian Sea, covers an area of 1482 sq. km and is at a water depth of 6-8 mts. It is situated in a highly prospective
region of the North Caspian Sea and is in close proximity to major discoveries. The block contains two prospective structures, namely Satpayev and Satpayev Vostochni(East) with 256 MMT in estimated hydrocarbon resources. This transaction marks the entry of
OVL in Kazakhstan’s hydrocarbon sector. Although OVL has been trying to gain a foothold in Kazakhstan since 1995, the efforts got a boost when OVL entered into a MoU with KMG in February 2005 for cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector. Heads of Agreement

(HOA) was signed between OVL and KMG in 2009 and the Exploration Contract was signed between Ministry of Oil and Gas of Kazakhstan and KMG in 2010. Now, on signing of the definitive agreements, KMG will assign 25% participating interest in
the Satpayev Block to OVL as a strategic foreign partner in the Project.

2.

Agreement between the Government of the Republic of India and Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy

The Agreement envisages a legal framework for mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy including fuel supply, nuclear medicine, use of radiation technologies for healthcare including isotopes,
reactor safety mechanisms, exchange of scientific & research information, exploration and joint mining of uranium, design, construction and operation of nuclear power plants etc.,

3.

Joint Action Plan for furthering the Strategic Partnership between the Republic of India and the Republic of Kazakhstan (Road Map) for the period of 2011-2014

The Roadmap outlines the joint action plan for implementation of projects to be undertaken by both sides during the period 2011-14 for the implementation of Inter-Governmental Agreements. The Roadmap details specific milestones in a range of
areas of bilateral cooperation including hydrocarbons, civilian nuclear energy, space, information technology & cyber security; high-tech and innovative technology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture and cultural exchanges.

4.

MoU between Indian Computer Emergency Response Team(CERT-In), Dept of Information Technology of India and Kazakhstan Computer Emergency Response Team (Kz-CERT), Republic of Kazakhstan

The MoU envisages development of cooperation in the area of Information Security and covers the scope of mutual response to cyber security incidents, exchange of information on spam and other cyber-attacks, exchange of information on prevalent
cyber security policies and exchange of human resources.

5.

Treaty between the Republic of India and the Republic

The Treaty envisages a wide range of measures for mutual legal

of Kazakhstan on Mutual Legal Assistance in Civil Matters

assistance in civil matters in accordance with laws of both countries. These measures include service of summons and other judicial documents or processes, taking of evidence by means of letters or request or commissions, recognition and execution
of court decisions and arbitral awards.

6.

Agreement between the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of India and the Ministry of the Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of agriculture and allied sectors

The document envisages cooperation between the two Ministries in the field of agricultural research and technologies, food and agricultural production. It also envisages cooperation in the spheres of agricultural science, food processing, crop
production, plant protection and agricultural trade.

7.

Agreement between the Ministry of Health of India and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan on cooperation in the field of healthcare

The Agreement envisages cooperation in the field of healthcare, medical services and pharmacy. It proposes establishment of direct cooperation between public health organizations as also scientific research and medical institutes. It covers
exchange of information and data about communicable diseases. It also envisages joint scientific research, visits of experts and specialists, exchange of information in the field of health services and medicine.

We, the Heads of State and Government of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, met in Sanya, Hainan, China for the BRICS Leaders Meeting on 14 April
2011.

The Heads of State and Government of Brazil, Russia, India and China welcome South Africa joining the BRICS and look forward to strengthening dialogue and cooperation with South Africa within the forum.

It is the overarching objective and strong shared desire for peace, security, development and cooperation that brought together BRICS countries with a total population of nearly 3 billion from different continents. BRICS aims at contributing significantly
to the development of humanity and establishing a more equitable and fair world.

The 21st century should be marked by peace, harmony, cooperation and scientific development. Under the theme "Broad Vision, Shared Prosperity”, we conducted candid and in-depth discussions and reached broad consensus on strengthening BRICS cooperation as
well as on promoting coordination on international and regional issues of common interest.

We affirm that the BRICS and other emerging countries have played an important role in contributing to world peace, security and stability, boosting global economic growth, enhancing multilateralism and promoting greater democracy in international relations.

In the economic, financial and development fields, BRICS serves as a major platform for dialogue and cooperation. We are determined to continue strengthening the BRICS partnership for common development and advance BRICS cooperation in a gradual and pragmatic
manner, reflecting the principles of openness, solidarity and mutual assistance. We reiterate that such cooperation is inclusive and non-confrontational. We are open to increasing engagement and cooperation with non-BRICS countries, in particular emerging
and developing countries, and relevant international and regional organizations.

We share the view that the world is undergoing far-reaching, complex and profound changes, marked by the strengthening of multipolarity, economic globalization and increasing interdependence. While facing the evolving global environment and a multitude
of global threats and challenges, the international community should join hands to strengthen cooperation for common development. Based on universally recognized norms of international law and in a spirit of mutual respect and collective decision making, global
economic governance should be strengthened, democracy in international relations should be promoted, and the voice of emerging and developing countries in international affairs should be enhanced.

We express our strong commitment to multilateral diplomacy with the United Nations playing the central role in dealing with global challenges and threats. In this respect, we reaffirm the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security
Council, with a view to making it more effective, efficient and representative, so that it can deal with today’s global challenges more successfully. China and Russia reiterate the importance they attach to the status of India, Brazil and South Africa in international
affairs, and understand and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN.

We underscore that the concurrent presence of all five BRICS countries in the Security Council during the year of 2011 is a valuable opportunity to work closely together on issues of peace and security, to strengthen multilateral approaches and to facilitate
future coordination on issues under UN Security Council consideration. We are deeply concerned with the turbulence in the Middle East , the North African and West African regions and sincerely wish that the countries affected achieve peace, stability, prosperity
and progress and enjoy their due standing and dignity in the world according to legitimate aspirations of their peoples. We share the principle that the use of force should be avoided. We maintain that the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity
of each nation should be respected.

We wish to continue our cooperation in the UN Security Council on Libya. We are of the view that all the parties should resolve their differences through peaceful means and dialogue in which the UN and regional organizations should as appropriate play their
role. We also express support for the African Union High-Level Panel Initiative on Libya.

We reiterate our strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stress that there can be no justification, whatsoever, for any acts of terrorism. We believe that the United Nations has a central role in coordinating the international
action against terrorism within the framework of the UN Charter and in accordance with principles and norms of the international law. In this context, we urge early conclusion of negotiations in the UN General Assembly of the Comprehensive Convention on International
Terrorism and its adoption by all Member States. We are determined to strengthen our cooperation in countering this global threat. We express our commitment to cooperate for strengthening international information security. We will pay special attention to
combat cybercrime.

We note that the world economy is gradually recovering from the financial crisis, but still faces uncertainties. Major economies should continue to enhance coordination of macro-economic policies and work together to achieve strong, sustainable and balanced
growth.

We are committed to assure that the BRICS countries will continue to enjoy strong and sustained economic growth supported by our increased cooperation in economic, finance and trade matters, which will contribute to the long-term steady, sound and balanced
growth of the world economy.

We support the Group of Twenty (G20) in playing a bigger role in global economic governance as the premier forum for international economic cooperation. We expect new positive outcomes in the fields of economy, finance, trade and development from the G20
Cannes Summit in 2011. We support the ongoing efforts of G20 members to stabilize international financial markets, achieve strong, sustainable and balanced growth and support the growth and development of the global economy. Russia offers to host the G20 Summit
in 2013. Brazil, India, China and South Africa welcome and appreciate Russia’s offer.

We call for a quick achievement of the targets for the reform of the International Monetary Fund agreed to at previous G20 Summits and reiterate that the governing structure of the international financial institutions should reflect the changes in the world
economy, increasing the voice and representation of emerging economies and developing countries.

Recognizing that the international financial crisis has exposed the inadequacies and deficiencies of the existing international monetary and financial system, we support the reform and improvement of the international monetary system, with a broad-based
international reserve currency system providing stability and certainty. We welcome the current discussion about the role of the SDR in the existing international monetary system including the composition of SDR’s basket of currencies. We call for more attention
to the risks of massive cross-border capital flows now faced by the emerging economies. We call for further international financial regulatory oversight and reform, strengthening policy coordination and financial regulation and supervision cooperation, and
promoting the sound development of global financial markets and banking systems.

Excessive volatility in commodity prices, particularly those for food and energy, poses new risks for the ongoing recovery of the world economy. We support the international community in strengthening cooperation to ensure stability and strong development
of physical market by reducing distortion and further regulate financial market. The international community should work together to increase production capacity, strengthen producer-consumer dialogue to balance supply and demand, and increase support to the
developing countries in terms of funding and technologies. The regulation of the derivatives market for commodities should be accordingly strengthened to prevent activities capable of destabilizing markets. We also should address the problem of shortage of
reliable and timely information on demand and supply at international, regional and national levels. The BRICS will carry out closer cooperation on food security.

We support the development and use of renewable energy resources. We recognize the important role of renewable energy as a means to address climate change. We are convinced of the importance of cooperation and information exchange in the field of development
of renewable energy resources.

Nuclear energy will continue to be an important element in future energy mix of BRICS countries. International cooperation in the development of safe nuclear energy for peaceful purposes should proceed under conditions of strict observance of relevant safety
standards and requirements concerning design, construction and operation of nuclear power plants.

Accelerating sustainable growth of developing countries is one of the major challenges for the world. We believe that growth and development are central to addressing poverty and to achieving the MDG goals. Eradication of extreme poverty and hunger is a
moral, social, political and economic imperative of humankind and one of the greatest global challenges facing the world today, particularly in Least Developed Countries in Africa and elsewhere.

We call on the international community to actively implement the outcome document adopted by the High-level Plenary Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the Millennium Development Goals held in September 2010 and achieve the objectives of the
MDGs by 2015 as scheduled.

Climate change is one of the global threats challenging the livelihood of communities and countries. China, Brazil, Russia and India appreciate and support South Africa’s hosting of UNFCCC COP17/CMP7. We support the Cancun Agreements and are ready to make
concerted efforts with the rest of the international community to bring a successful conclusion to the negotiations at the Durban Conference applying the mandate of the Bali Roadmap and in line with the principle of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities.
We commit ourselves to work towards a comprehensive, balanced and binding outcome to strengthen the implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Kyoto Protocol. The BRICS will intensify cooperation on the Durban conference.
We will enhance our practical cooperation in adapting our economy and society to climate change.

Sustainable development, as illustrated by the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, Agenda 21, the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation and multilateral environmental treaties, should be an important vehicle to advance economic growth. China,
Russia, India and South Africa appreciate Brazil as the host of the 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development and look forward to working with Brazil to reach new political commitment and achieve positive and practical results in areas of economic growth,
social development and environmental protection under the framework of sustainable development. Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa appreciate and support India’s hosting of the eleventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological
Diversity. Brazil, China and South Africa also appreciate and support the sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to be held in October 2012.

We underscore our firm commitment to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in the fields of social protection, decent work, gender equality, youth, and public health, including the fight against HIV /AIDS.

We support infrastructure development in Africa and its industrialization within framework of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD).

We have agreed to continue further expanding and deepening economic, trade and investment cooperation among our countries. We encourage all countries to refrain from resorting to protectionist measures. We welcome the outcomes of the meeting of BRICS Trade
Ministers held in Sanya on 13 April 2011. Brazil, China, India and South Africa remain committed and call upon other members to support a strong, open, rule-based multilateral trading system embodied in the World Trade Organization and a successful, comprehensive
and balanced conclusion of the Doha Development Round, built on the progress already made and consistent with its development mandate. Brazil, India, China and South Africa extend full support to an early accession of Russia to the World Trade Organization.

We reviewed the progress of the BRICS cooperation in various fields and share the view that such cooperation has been enriching and mutually beneficial and that there is a great scope for closer cooperation among the BRICS. We are focused on the consolidation
of BRICS cooperation and the further development of its own agenda. We are determined to translate our political vision into concrete actions and endorse the attached Action Plan, which will serve as the foundation for future cooperation. We will review the
implementation of the Action Plan during our next Leaders Meeting.

We intend to explore cooperation in the sphere of science, technology and innovation, including the peaceful use of space. We congratulate the Russian people and government upon the 50th anniversary of the flight of Yury Gagarin into the space, which ushered
in a new era in development of science and technology.

We express our confidence in the success of the 2011 Universiade in Shenzhen, the 2013 Universiade in Kazan, the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, the 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralympics Games in Sochi, the FIFA 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the 2016 Olympic
and Paralympics Games in Rio de Janeiro and the FIFA 2018 World Cup in Russia.

We extend our deepest condolences to the people of Japan with the great loss of life following the disasters that struck the country. We will continue our practical support to Japan in overcoming consequences of these catastrophes.

The leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa extend our warm appreciation to China for hosting the BRICS Leaders Meeting and the Hainan Provincial Government and Sanya Municipal Government and their people for their support to the Meeting.

Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa thank India for hosting the BRICS Leaders Meeting in 2012 and offer their full support.

Action Plan

We formulated the Action Plan, laying the foundation for the BRICS cooperation, with the purpose to strengthen BRICS cooperation and benefit our peoples.

Enhance existing cooperation programs

1. Hold the third Meeting of High Representatives for Security Issues in the latter half of 2011 in China.

Hold the meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs during the 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Hold sherpas/sous-sherpas meeting in due time.

Representatives to international organizations based in New York and Geneva meet periodically in an informal manner.

Ministers of Finance and Governors of Central Banks meet under the G20 framework and during the annual meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

Hold the Meeting of Agriculture Expert Working Group and the second Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture in 2011 in China, and cooperate in issues including establishment of BRICS System of Agricultural Information and holding a seminar on food security.

Hold the Meeting of the heads of the National Statistical Institutions in September 2011 in China.

Hold the second BRICS International Competition Conference in September 2011 in China, and explore the possibility of signing an Agreement on Cooperation between Antimonopoly Agencies.

Continue to hold the BRICS Think-tank Symposiums, and consider establishing a network of research centers of all BRICS countries.

Hold another Business Forum prior to the next BRICS Leaders Meeting.

Strengthen financial cooperation among the BRICS Development Banks.

Implement the Protocol of Intent among the BRIC Countriesf Supreme Courts.

Release the Joint Statistical Publication by BRICS Countries.

Continue to hold the Meeting of Cooperatives.

New areas of cooperation

Host the first BRICS Friendship Cities and Local Governments Cooperation Forum in 2011 in China.

Host the Meeting of Ministers of Health in 2011 in China.

Engage in joint research on economic and trade issues.

Update, as appropriate, the Bibliography on the BRICS countries.

New proposals to explore

Cooperate in the cultural field according to the agreement of the BRICS leaders.

Encourage cooperation in sports.

Explore the feasibility to cooperate in the field of green economy.

Hold a meeting of Senior Officials for discussing ways of promoting scientific, technological and innovation cooperation in BRICS formatCincluding by establishment a working group on cooperation in pharmaceutical industry.

Establish, at UNESCO, a gBRICS-UNESCO Grouph, aiming at developing common strategies within the mandate of the Organization.

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MEA47894799Joint Statement on the State Visit of Prime Minister of Thailand

H.E. Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, the Prime Minister of Thailand paid a State visit to India during 4-5 April 2011 at the invitation of Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India. The Prime Minister of Thailand was accompanied by the Minister for Foreign Affairs,
Minister of Industry, Deputy Minister of Commerce, the President of the Thai Trade Representative Office and an official delegation.

During the visit, the Prime Minister of Thailand held bilateral talks with Dr. Manmohan Singh who also hosted a banquet in honour of the visiting dignitary. The Thai Prime Minister called on Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the President of India and Shri
Hamid Ansari, the Vice-President of India. Shri S.M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister of India called on the Thai leader. The Thai Prime Minister attended a business luncheon hosted by the three chambers of commerce.

The two Prime Ministers held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues, including on the need to energize bilateral institutional mechanisms, to enhance cooperation in security matters and to upgrade the bilateral dialogue
on defence matters. The two leaders stressed the significance of enhancing connectivity between the two countries and regions, and the importance of further enhancing bilateral trade and investment. In this context the two leaders noted that the next meeting
of the Joint Commission will be held in 2011 during which new initiative for enhancing cooperation would be identified. Discussions were also held on cooperation between the two sides to minimize the damage caused by natural disasters such as earthquake and
tsunami and to deploy effective multilateral early warning systems against them.

The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance attached to the strengthening and enhancement of trade and economic through the bilateral and regional frameworks viz. ASEAN-India, BIMSTEC and MGC

At bilateral level, the two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the growing trend of bilateral trade and investment between the two countries. They noted that the bilateral trade turnover had reached US$ 6.7 billion in 2010 and agreed to double the
trade volume by 2014. Noting that ongoing negotiations on a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement between India and Thailand that would promote trade in goods and services, and investment were proceeding well, they directed the negotiators to finalize the text
of the Agreement by the end of 2011. They also desired that the Second Protocol to Amend the Framework Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area between Thailand and India founded in 2003 be signed at the earliest possible date.

The Leaders reiterated their commitment to realization of the Trilateral Highway connecting India to Thailand via Myanmar to enhance regional transport networks. The highway while promoting trade and people to people contacts will also help revive the shared
civilizational and cultural contacts and the ancient routes of knowledge and pilgrimage.

The two Prime Ministers noted that India and Thailand have an on-going programme of defence cooperation, characterized by a number of exchanges between the Armed Forces of both countries, joint exercises and participation in each others' defence training
programmes. In order to strengthen this cooperation further, the two leaders agreed to establish a regular High-Level Dialogue on Defence Cooperation between the Ministries of Defence of both countries in the near future, details of which would be further
finalized. It was agreed that this Dialogue would regularly review all the elements of bilateral defence cooperation including in the area of defence industry and technology. The Dialogue would also include discussions on a bilateral MoU on Defence Cooperation.

The Prime Minister of Thailand expressed his appreciation at the successive recent actions by the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard that had led to the successful release of several Thai nationals who had been the victims of piracy in the Indian Ocean.
The two leaders, noting that coordinated patrolling was already being carried out jointly by the Indian and Thai navies, agreed to further enhance this cooperation. including by increasing the duration and frequency of such patrols. Both leaders also noted
the possibility of experience sharing on Coast Guard Operations.

The two leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stressed that there could be no justification whatsoever for any act of terrorism. Recognizing the common threats to national security from transnational crimes, including
international terrorism, the two Prime Ministers resolved to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, including in restricting transnational movement and unauthorized stay of known terrorists in each other's countries. The two leaders
resolved to commit their countries to improve sharing of intelligence, the development of more effective counter-terrorism policies, enhance liaison between law enforcement agencies, provide assistance in the areas of border and immigration control to stem
the flow of terrorist related material, money and people and specific measures against transnational crimes, through the already existing mechanisms between Thailand and India. Both leaders agreed that the next (6th) meeting of the Joint Working Group on Security
Cooperation be held within the next six months.

Noting that India and Thailand are discussing Extradition Treaty, Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Civil and Commercial Matters and Agreement on Transfer of Sentenced Persons, the two sides agreed that the above mentioned agreements may be concluded at
the earliest.

The Prime Minister of Thailand welcomed the fact that almost 800,000 Indian tourists had visited Thailand in the year 2010 and observed that visitors from India were the fastest-growing segment in the tourist inflow into Thailand.

The two leaders, recognizing that there was great unrealized potential for increasing the inflow of Thai tourists into India, agreed to provide greater facilitation to Thai Buddhist monks, pilgrims, students and tourists visiting India.

India announced support to the India Studies Centre set up at the Thammasat University in Thailand recently through visiting Chairs in areas to be selected jointly by the University and the ICCR, collaboration in India related research programmes through
exchange of senior scholars for a period of one year and extending scholarships to the students from the Centre for Studies in India at the Post Graduate level and for Ph. D programmes. He expressed the hope that the India Study Centre would ignite a new interest
in young Thai people in the great currents of contemporary India as well as renew interest in the ideas, values, arts and philosophy of the India of times past.

Recalling the long history of cultural and historical ties between the two countries, the two leaders agreed that to lift relations to a higher level, the two countries shall increase and expand existing cultural exchanges and strengthen people-to-people
contacts to raise visibility and profile of the other country. The two countries will also continue to explore opportunities to promote cultural exchanges in fields such as conservation, traditional art, contemporary art, literature, film making, music, dance,
theatre etc. In this context, Thailand and India mutually agreed that the Executive Programme of Cultural Exchange between the two countries should be renewed at the earliest opportunity for the year 2011-2013 in order to facilitate and promote deeper and
varied cultural exchanges.”

The two leaders welcomed the recent progress made towards the revival of the Nalanda University, including the passage by Indian Parliament of the Nalanda University Bill and the regular meetings of the Nalanda Mentor Group, The Prime Ministers were pleased
to note that the revival of the Nalanda University would rejuvenate the close cultural and religious ties that link India and Thailand since the ancient period.

The two leaders held discussions on regional cooperation within ASEAN. The Prime Minister of India expressed his appreciation for Thailand's role as a valued partner within ASEAN and expressed his satisfaction that Thailand was one of the largest participants
at the successful India-ASEAN Business Fair that was held in New Delhi in March 2011. The two Leaders noted that the Fair has also witnessed the first meeting of India-ASEAN Trade/Commerce Ministers in India. He also appreciated the visit of Foreign Minister
of Thailand to deliver the key note address at the recently held Delhi Dialogue – III Conference focusing on India-ASEAN Engagement. The two leaders recalled the Action Plan for ASEAN-India Partnership 2010-15 that was adopted in Hanoi in November 2010 and
reiterated their resolve to further promote a multi-faceted India-ASEAN relationship. The two Prime Ministers looked forward to the India-ASEAN Commemorative Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi in 2012.

At regional level, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the entry into force of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement on Trade in Goods on 1 January 2010 and the increase in bilateral trade as a result thereof, and hoped that the Agreement would further contribute
to the envisaged trade target of USD 70 billion as set by ASEAN and India. The two Prime Ministers looked forward to an early finalization of the India-ASEAN services and investment agreements currently under negotiation.

The two leaders also discussed regional cooperation in other formats such as BIMSTEC and Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC). Both the leaders expressed satisfaction that the last BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting held in January 2011 had agreed to locate the Permanent
Secretariat of BIMSTEC in Bangladesh and looked forward to greater progress in realizing a need based programme of regional cooperation suited to the needs of the BIMSTEC member countries. The two leaders also looked forward to synergizing economic cooperation
and capacity building in the Mekong region under the MGC.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva of Thailand expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and to the people of India for the warm welcome and hospitality that had been extended to him and to the members of his delegation on his State visit.

The India-Pakistan Home/Interior Secretary level Talks were held in New Delhi on March 28-29, 2011. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Gopal K. Pillai, Home Secretary of India, while the Pakistan delegation was headed by Mr. Qamar Zaman Chaudhary, Interior
Secretary of Pakistan.

The meeting was held in pursuance of the decision taken in Thimphu (Bhutan) in February 2011 by the Governments of Pakistan and India, to resume the dialogue process and in the backdrop of Bilateral meeting between the Home Minister of India and the Interior
Minister of Pakistan held in Islamabad on June 25-26, 2010.

The meeting was held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere.

Both sides exchanged views on the decisions taken in the last round of Talks held in Islamabad in 2008. It was agreed that it was important for both sides to remain engaged on outstanding issues and henceforth the Home/Interior Secretary level Talks would
be held bi-annually.

Both sides agreed to set up a Hotline between Home Secretary of India and Interior Secretary of Pakistan to facilitate real time information sharing with respect to terrorist threats.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reaffirmed the need to bring those responsible for such crimes to justice.

Pakistani side provided updates on the ongoing trial and investigation in Pakistan on the Mumbai Terror Attacks. Pakistan conveyed its readiness, in principle, based upon the principle of comity and reciprocity, to entertain a Commission from India with
respect to Mumbai Terror Attack investigations. Modalities and composition in this connection will be worked out through diplomatic channels. Dates for the visit of the Judicial Commission from Pakistan in connection with Mumbai attack trial will be conveyed
by India within four-six weeks. NIA and FIA will continue to cooperate in the Mumbai Terror Attack investigations.

India provided information on the on-going Samjhautha Express blast case investigation. It was also agreed that after filing of report in the court, updated information will be shared with the concerned Pakistan authorities.

Both sides noted and welcomed the release of prisoners and fishermen by each other since the last round of Talks. It was agreed that both sides would release by April 15, 2011 those civilian prisoners/fishermen who have completed their sentence, whose nationality
status has been confirmed by the respective Governments and whose travel documents have been received. Complete list of prisoners in each others’ custody will be exchanged by both sides on July 1, 2011.

Both sides agreed that the problem and issues of the inadvertent crossers should be viewed sympathetically, and in a focused and sensitive manner. Accordingly, both sides also agreed to task the Coast Guard of India and Pakistan Maritime Security Agency
to work on setting up a mechanism for release of inadvertent crossers (fishermen) and their boats on the same lines as the inadvertent crossers on land. The Group will submit its report to the Home/Interior Secretaries before the next round of Talks.

Both sides commended the work done by the Judicial Committee on Prisoners for the release, repatriation and humane treatment of prisoners and agreed on the need for its continuation. The next meeting of the Judicial Committee would be held from April 19-23,
2011 in Pakistan.

Both sides shared the concern of the growing menace of Narcotics/Drugs and agreed that cooperation between NCB of India and ANF of Pakistan should be enhanced to ensure an effective control on drug trafficking. It was further agreed that Talks between DG,
NCB and DG ANF would be held annually. Indian side accepted the invitation for DG NCB to visit Pakistan in May 2011 for talks with DG ANF.

The ‘MoU on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotics Drugs/Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemicals and related matters’ as finalized will be formally signed at the next DG level meeting of NCB-ANF in May 2011.

It was decided that CBI and FIA will schedule a meeting to work out the technical details of moving forward on issues of, human trafficking, counterfeit currency, cyber crimes and Red Corner Notices (RCNs).

Both sides agreed to set up a Joint Working Group to examine the modalities for streamlining the visa procedure/modalities and for giving a final shape to revision of the Bilateral Visa Agreement.

The Interior Secretary of Pakistan invited the Home Secretary of India for the next Home/Interior Secretary level Talks in Pakistan. The invitation was accepted.

Both sides agreed that the visit of the Interior Minister of Pakistan to India will take place on mutually convenient dates, to be decided through diplomatic channels.

New Delhi
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MEA45204524Meeting of India Sri Lanka JWG on Fisheries - Joint Press StatementThe 3rd Meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Working Group on Fisheries was held in New Delhi on March 28-29, 2011. The Sri Lanka delegation was led by Mr. Ranjith Uyangoda, Additional Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of Sri Lanka and the Indian delegation
by Shri T.S. Tirumurti, Joint Secretary (BSM), Ministry of External Affairs of India. The leader of the Sri Lankan delegation called on the Foreign Secretary of India, Smt. Nirupama Rao on 29th March 2011.

Both sides welcomed the convening of the Joint Working Group on Fisheries, the last meeting of which was held in January 2006 in Colombo. The two sides reviewed developments since 2006.

Both sides reiterated the high priority given by their respective Governments to issues of fishermen and their livelihood. They stressed the need for all fishermen to be treated in a humane manner. To ensure the safety and security of fishermen, both sides
agreed that the use of force cannot be justified under any circumstances. The need to respect the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) when fishing was stressed by the Sri Lankan side.

The Sri Lankan side informed that the recent violent incidents in January 2011, which resulted in the death of two Indian fishermen, are being further investigated. In this context, the two sides noted that the Joint Statement on Fishing Arrangements of
26th October 2008 had led to a decrease in violent incidents in 2009-2010. They welcomed the Joint Statement issued during the visit of the Foreign Secretary of India to Sri Lanka in January 2011.

The two sides noted that given the socio-economic and livelihood dimensions to the issue, there was need for enhancing cooperation by building on the agreements reached earlier. They agreed on the need to discuss arrangements based on the current situation
so as to further strengthen the safety, security and livelihood of the fishermen.

Both sides welcomed the visit of a group of Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka between 20-23 March 2011. They had called on the Hon’ble Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of Sri Lanka and had also meetings with Hon’ble Minister of Small
and Traditional Industries of Sri Lanka and their counterparts from the Northern Province. Recalling the initiatives taken earlier in August 2010 by the fishermen of both countries, where a Sri Lankan fishermen delegation visited India, both sides agreed on
the need to foster greater understanding between their respective fishermen and fishermen associations. Noting the invitation extended by the Indian fishermen to their Sri Lankan counterparts, the two sides agreed that a return visit to India would be important
to take this process forward.

Both sides discussed the various regulatory measures being put in place to manage the fishery resources in their respective waters. They noted the growing importance of fisheries to the livelihood of the coastal communities in Northern Sri Lanka. The two sides
agreed that a road map needs to be put in place to ensure resource sustainability, livelihood, safety and security of the fishermen of both countries. Both sides also discussed measures to expedite the release of bonafide detained fishermen from both countries.

The draft Memorandum of Understanding on Development and Cooperation in the field of Fisheries was also discussed and it was decided to continue discussion on the draft. The Indian side offered to continue its assistance to the fisheries sector in Sri Lanka,
which was welcomed by the Sri Lankan side.

The Indian delegation also thanked the Sri Lankan authorities for facilitating the visit of Indian fishermen and pilgrims to Kachchativu for the festival of St. Anthony earlier this month.

New Delhi
March 29, 2011

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MEA45244534Agreements signed during the visit of Foreign Minister of Nigeria

Name of Agreement/MoU

Nigerian Signatory

Indian Signatory

Agreed Minutes of Discussions at the Fifth Session of the India-Nigeria Joint Commission

H.E. H. Odein Ajumogobia
Foreign Minister

Shri S.M. Krishna
External Affairs Minister

MoU for Cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector between Department of Pharmaceuticals in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers of the Govt. of the Republic of India and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC),
Federal Ministry of Health of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Dr. Paul B. Orhii
Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control

At the invitation of Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister (EAM) of India, H. E. Mr. Albert del Rosario, Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs (Foreign Minister) of the Philippines visited New Delhi on 15 March 2011 for the inaugural meeting
of the Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation. A bilateral Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for the year 2011-13 was signed during the visit. The two sides also announced the establishment of a Joint Working Group on cooperation in Counter Terrorism.

Secretary del Rosario and Minister of State Smt Praneet Kaur (MOS) held comprehensive discussions covering all aspects of bilateral relations and multilateral issues such as the United Nations Security Council reforms, ASEAN-India cooperation, the fight
against international terrorism, transnational crimes and disaster management.

The Ministers noted that the bilateral Partnership has evolved over the years to cover a wide gamut of areas of mutual interest. The Ministers reviewed the progress following the 9th Foreign Policy Consultations held in Manila in October 2009. The two sides
also agreed to convene the next meetings of Joint Working Groups on Trade and Investment, Agriculture, Tourism, and Health and Medicine later this year.

The Ministers were pleased to note that the target of US$ 1 billion in bilateral trade by 2010, set by the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment at its 10th (last) meeting in New Delhi during 21-22 November 2008, was met. The Ministers called for
greater cooperation between the business and industry sectors of both countries, and in this regard appreciated the initiative of the Government of India in organizing the First ASEAN-India Business Fair and Business Conclave from 02 to 06 March 2011. India
looks forward to the early notification of India-ASEAN FTA in Goods by the Philippines and expressed hope that the utilization of Agreement will increase in the coming years.

The two sides were encouraged by the recent import of capital goods from the Philippines to India in the form of two 175,000 dead weight tonne (dwt) container ships (MV Rahi and MV Vanshee) bought by an Indian company from an enterprise in the Philippines,
the naming ceremony for which was attended by H.E. President Benigno S. Aquino III in January 2011.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council through its expansion in the permanent and non-permanent categories, with increased representation of developing countries in both, in order
to improve its efficiency, representative-ness, and legitimacy, and for it to better meet the contemporary challenges faced by the international community.

MOS welcomed the announcement of initiation of flights of the Philippine Airlines between Manila and Delhi six times a week; the inaugural flight is scheduled on March 28, 2011. MOS expressed hope that this move will facilitate greater people to people
interaction between the two countries. Both Ministers stressed the importance of enhancing cooperation in sectors such as Tourism, Agriculture, Health, Energy, Education and Culture.

Secretary del Rosario, on behalf of President Benigno S. Aquino III, extended an invitation to Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of the Republic of India to visit the Philippines.

The Ministers agreed to have closer coordination in the regional and multilateral fora. MOS said that she looked forward to the possible first visit of H.E. Mr. Benigno S. Aquino-III, President of the Republic of the Philippines to India for the ASEAN-India
Commemorative Summit in 2012.

The Ministers reviewed the progress of the 3rd Security Dialogue held in Manila in October 2009 and agreed to rename it as "Strategic Dialogue” to broaden its scope. The Ministers urged the early convening of the first meeting of the Joint Defence Cooperation
Committee (JDCC).

The two Ministers unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and resolved to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation to combat terrorism. In this regard, they decided to convene the first meeting of the JWG on Counter Terrorism
later this year.

Secretary del Rosario thanked the External Affairs Minister for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit and invited the External Affairs Minister to visit the Philippines for the next round of the Joint Commission on Bilateral
Cooperation next year on a mutually convenient date. External Affairs Minister Krishna accepted the invitation with pleasure.

New Delhi
March 15, 2011

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MEA45454625Agreement signed during the visit of Foreign Minister of Philippines

Name of the Agreement

Philippines Signatory

Indian Signatory

Executive Programme of Cultural Exchange between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Republic of Philippines for the Year 2011-13

At the invitation of Shri S. M. Krishna, External Affairs Minister of India, H. E. Antonio Patriota, Foreign Minister of Brazil visited New Delhi on 8th March 2011 for the Bilateral and the IBSA Ministerial meetings. The Foreign Ministers of India, Brazil
and South Africa made a joint call on Prime Minister of India on 8th March 2011. The Foreign Minister of Brazil met Shri Vyalar Ravi Minister for Indian Overseas Affairs and Civil Aviation with whom a bilateral Air Services Agreement was signed. He also met
Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Anand Sharma with whom he discussed bilateral trade and investment issues and matters pertaining to WTO. Earlier, National Security Advisor and the visiting dignitary led their respective delegations for the 3rd India-Brazil
strategic Dialogue on 5th March 2011.

The two Foreign Ministers held comprehensive discussions which covered all aspects of bilateral relations and multilateral issues such as the UNSC agenda, IBSA, BRICS, G-20, Doha Round, disarmament and non-proliferation, climate change and human rights.
They also exchanged views on regional developments in Afghanistan-Pakistan, Koreas, Middle East, Haiti etc. As current members of the UN Security Council the Ministers reiterated the commitment of both countries to work towards common objectives.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the reform of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council through its expansion in the permanent and non-permanent categories, with increased representation of developing countries in both, in order
to improve its efficiency, representativeness, and legitimacy, and for it to better meet the contemporary challenges faced by the international community. The Ministers reiterated mutual support for their countries’, as well as for African permanent membership
in an expanded UNSC. They recalled their meetings in New York on 11 February and reiterated their resolve to take the process of UNSC reform toward a concrete outcome during the current session of the UNGA, with a view to achieving reform at the earliest.
They agreed on the interlinkages between peace, security and development, as highlighted during an open debate chaired by Brazil on February 11th, 2011, at the UNSC.

While acknowledging the growing importance of developing countries and their role in shaping a more balanced international order in a multipolar world, the two Foreign Ministers welcomed the convergence of positions between Brazil and India in multilateral
fora as well as in groups such as IBSA and BRICS. They stressed that their concurrent presence in the Security Council during the year 2011 provides an opportunity to work closely together in order to bring their perspectives into the work of the Council and
to strengthen the voice of developing countries in that forum. They reiterated the commitment of their countries to consult and coordinate their approaches and positions both in New York and in capitals on issues on the agenda of the Security Council.

Both the Ministers noted that the bilateral Strategic Partnership has evolved comprehensively and covered a wide gamut of areas of mutual interest. Both ministers agreed that the India-Brazil Joint Commission Meeting should take place at the earliest.

The Ministers expressed satisfaction that bilateral trade & investment have grown significantly in recent years. Bilateral trade at $ 7.8 billion in 2010 registered a growth rate of 25% over the previous year and at this rate both sides hoped to achieve
the trade target of $ 10 billion. Acknowledging the Trade Monitoring Mechanism (TMM) as a useful platform for removing obstacles in the bilateral trade, the Ministers hoped the third meeting of the TMM would soon be held in New Delhi. The Ministers urged the
CEOs from prominent companies of the two countries to meet soon in order to identify areas of cooperation. They also agreed to facilitate expeditious issue of business visa to promote greater trade and investments in each other’s countries.

The Ministers recognized that bilateral defense cooperation has enormous potential and expressed confidence that the Joint Defence Committee will explore development of mutually beneficial collaborative projects. The Ministers also welcomed the visit to
Brazil of Indian Air Force Chief (Oct 2010), Chief of the Naval Staff (Feb 2011) and the visit to India of the Brazilian Defence Minister (Mar 2010) and Commander of the Navy (Aug 2010).

In the areas of Science and Technology, the Ministers directed that new projects be undertaken by apex national institutions in the two countries for development of commercially viable joint research. The Ministers emphasized that both sides should work
towards harnessing the vast potential for cooperation in the field of Information Technology.

Recognizing that Agriculture is an important area of bilateral cooperation the Ministers noted with satisfaction the visit of Shri Sharad Pawar, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution to Brazil in
September 2010. They also directed ICAR and Embrapa (The Brazilian Agricultural Research Agency) to sign a new biennial action plan at an early date so that bilateral cooperation between the two organizations moves forward. The Ministers also noted the potential
for cooperation in the field of ethanol.

Both sides recognised that Energy Security is an important component of the Strategic Partnership. The ministers reiterated the need to enhance cooperation in hydrocarbons, bio-fuels, wind energy and hydro power. They noted the growing Indian investments
in hydrocarbons in Brazil and its keenness to further collaborate with Petrobras in the exploration of oil and infrastructure creation. They also emphasized the need for cooperation in the mining sector where there are ample opportunities for mutually beneficial
partnerships. They welcomed the proposed visit of Shri Dinsha J. Patel, Minister of State for Mines (Independent Charge) to Brazil in May 2011.

The Ministers recognized the potential in civil nuclear cooperation between the two sides and resolved to enhance cooperation in this sector. They hoped that Chairman of the Brazilian National Nuclear Energy Commission would visit India soon.

The Ministers reiterated the interest of both sides in furthering cooperation in the Space sector. They expressed satisfaction at the setting up of a ground station at Cuiaba in Brazil by ISRO for reception of Resourcesat-1 signals. They welcomed the proposal
of a Brazilian delegation to visit ISRO to create a Joint Working Group.

The Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment for cooperation in the field of education and expressed interest in extending the Educational Exchange Program beyond 2011. They welcomed the ‘in principle’ agreement of FGV for establishment of a Chair of
Indian Studies in the FGV in Rio de Janeiro. The Ministers welcomed the proposal of Cultural Exchange Program between Brazil and India and express happiness at the cultural events organized by Brazil in India in the last year and at the planned Week of Indian
culture in Brazil by India in May 2011. Brazilian side welcomed the proposal of opening of an Indian Culture Center in Sao Paulo, Brazil and expressed its full support for its smooth functioning.

The Ministers reiterated the need for enhancing cooperation in sports under the MOU signed in February 2008 between India and Brazil and welcomed the initiative to celebrate the decade of sports in Brazil. They also welcomed the proposal of sending football
coaches to India for training of Indian players.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction the gradually increasing flow of persons between the two countries. They expressed hope for an early conclusion of the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and a bilateral Agreement on Transfer of Sentenced Persons being
negotiated by both sides.

The Foreign Minister of Brazil thanked the Indian Foreign Minister for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit. He invited the Indian Foreign Minister to visit Brazil in the near future, which was accepted with pleasure.

New Delhi
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MEA46494671IBSA Declaration on the situation in the Middle East and Northern AfricaThe Ministers of External Relations of India, Brazil and South Africa, gathered in New Delhi, on March 8th 2011, for the VII Ministerial Meeting of the IBSA Dialogue Forum, closely attentive to the present political unrest in several Middle Eastern and northern
African countries, stressed their expectation that the changes sweeping the region follow a peaceful course. They expressed their confidence in a positive outcome in harmony with the aspirations of the peoples.

Referring to the IBSA Ministerial Declaration, issued in Brasilia, on April 15th 2010, on the occasion of the Fourth IBSA Summit, when a meeting with the Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki was held, they stated their conviction that the recent developments
in the Region may offer a chance for a comprehensive peace in the Middle East. This process should include the solution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the resumption of negotiations that will lead to a two-state solution, with the creation of
a sovereign, democratic, independent, united and viable Palestinian State, coexisting peacefully alongside Israel, within secure, pre-1967 borders, and with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In line with the Joint Statement of the IBSA Ministerial Meeting, held in 11th

New York, February 2011, concerning countries that risk of lapsing or relapsing into conflict, they underlined the key role of development strategies for the achievement of sustainable peace. In that sense, they recalled that IBSA countries are sponsoring projects
in Palestine, such as the construction of a Multipurpose Sports Center in Ramallah and the creation of a Palestinian Youth Sports League. Recalling their condition of developing countries, who share therefore the same challenges for ensuring sustainable development,
they are willing to cooperate with other Arab countries in order to address social and economic issues aiming at long term stability and recovery, according to regional demands, whenever requested.

Taking into consideration the presence of the three countries in the Security Council during 2011, they stated their intention to assess areas for further cooperation and discuss the current security situation with a view to making a positive contribution.

New Delhi
March 8, 2011
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MEA46714727India-Brazil-South Africa Dialogue Forum Seventh Trilateral Commission Meeting Ministerial Communiqué
The Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, H.E. Mr. S. M. Krishna, the Minister of External Relations of the Federative Republic of Brazil, H.E. Ambassador Antonio de Aguiar Patriota, and the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
of South Africa, H.E. Ambassador Maite Nkoana¬Mashabane, met in New Delhi on 8th March 2011 for the VII IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission.

The Ministers reaffirmed the commitment of their respective countries to further deepening the dialogue and cooperation within the IBSA framework at inter¬governmental, social, people¬to¬people and business¬to¬business levels. They underscored the important
role IBSA is playing in strengthening political coordination among the three countries on global issues of mutual interest. In this rapidly changing global order, the Ministers underscored the increased strategic importance of IBSA as a Forum of developing
country democracies from three different continents based on shared values which play a critical role as an influential mechanism for further strengthening and fostering South¬South cooperation and safeguarding and advancing the interests of the South, particularly
in regard to reform of global governance.

The three Ministers confirmed their countries’ commitment to democratic values, inclusive social development and economic growth and their belief in multilateralism as the guiding principle to deal with peace, security and development issues. The Ministers
emphasized the growing interdependence between development and security and its importance for sustainable peace.

The Ministers noted with satisfaction that there is a wide range of global issues on which the three countries share common positions. In this context, they stressed the common objective of making structures of global governance more democratic, representative,
transparent, and to enhance their legitimacy by ensuring a more effective role for developing countries.

Global Issues

United Nations Reform and Security Council Reform

The Ministers noted that this meeting was taking place when the three countries are non­permanent members of the UN Security Council. They reiterated their firm commitment to multilateralism and reaffirmed the need for the UN to become more responsive to
and coherent with the priorities of developing countries. They emphasized the need for urgent reform of the UN Security Council, including expansion of permanent and non­permanent categories of its membership, with increased participation of developing countries
in both categories. Towards this end, the representation of developing countries from Africa, Asia and Latin America is essential. Such reform in the Security Council is of utmost importance to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities and to enhance its
representativeness, effectiveness and legitimacy. The Ministers reaffirmed their resolve to maintain their close coordination as well as to reach out to the broader UN membership, in order to advance towards concrete results in the on­going intergovernmental
negotiations on Security Council reform, by the end of the current session of the UNGA.

The Ministers underscored that the concurrent presence of all three IBSA countries in the Security Council during the year 2011, provides a unique opportunity to work closely together in order to bring their perspectives into the work of the Council and
strengthen the voice of the South. They reiterated the commitment of their countries to consult and coordinate their approaches and positions in New York, Geneva and in capitals, on issues on the agenda of the Security Council.

The Ministers emphasized the central role of peacekeeping operations and the need to accompany them with peacebuilding programmes so as to enhance stability.

International Terrorism

The Ministers agreed that terrorism constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, hinders the enjoyment of human rights, and undermines social and economic development of democratic societies. They reiterated their strong
condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stressed that there can be no justification, whatsoever, for any acts of terrorism. They reaffirmed the central role of the United Nations in coordinating the international action against terrorism
within the framework of the UN Charter and in accordance with the international law. The Ministers stressed that the fight against terrorism needs strong international cooperation and agreed to enhance their mutual cooperation to prevent terrorist attacks
and punish perpetrators, financiers and others involved in such acts, according to international and domestic legislations. In this context, the leaders urged all UN member states to urgently conclude and adopt the Comprehensive Convention on International
Terrorism.

Climate Change

The Ministers reiterated the importance of working towards the establishment of an equitable outcome for the current climate change negotiations at the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) and the 7th Meeting of the Parties (CMP7) to the Kyoto Protocol to be held in Durban, South Africa in November/December 2011. They stressed that the result should be reached in an inclusive and transparent manner, and that the Bali Road Map should
guide the future work of the Parties. Furthermore, the outcomes of COP17 should build on the agreements reached at COP16 in Cancun, Mexico in accordance with the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. In this
respect, the Ministers called for the speedy operationalisation of the Green Climate Fund, Technology Mechanism and the Adaptation Committee.

International Financial and Economic Crisis

The Ministers remained concerned about the sustainability of the current global economic recovery. They noted that coordinated response in the aftermath of the global crisis, and the resultant recovery, even if it is not complete, has clearly demonstrated
the merits of a coordinated approach. They urged the G­20 and like­minded countries to take further steps towards achieving the shared objective of ensuring a full return to growth and employment, and reformed and strengthened global financial system, and
sustainable and balanced growth. They also emphasized that it was important to explore ways to improve the international monetary system to ensure systemic stability in the global economy.

The Ministers underscored the importance of sustaining long­term capital flows to developing countries to stimulate investment, especially in infrastructure, to address the development deficit and increase global demand. They called upon Multilateral Development
Banks and Regional Development Banks to play a major role in this regard.

The Ministers welcomed the decisions of the G20 Leaders in the Seoul Summit in November 2010, including on International Financial Institutions reforms, financial regulatory reforms and development agenda embodied in the Multi­Year Action Plan. They emphasized
that reforming international financial institutions, should aim for achieving equitable distribution of voting power between developed and developing countries. While recognizing the importance of continuing on repairing financial sector and reforming financial
regulation for global financial stability, they welcomed the Multi­Year Action Plan comprising nine development pillars.

Multilateral Trade Negotiations

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to an open, transparent and rule­based international trading regime and called for an early conclusion of the Doha Development Round with a balanced outcome which ensures the development needs of the developing
countries, especially the least developed countries.

They recognized that the existing draft modalities, which should be the basis for ongoing negotiations, already require the developing countries to offer unprecedented levels of concessions. Keeping in mind the terms of the Doha Development Agenda, they
urged WTO members to ensure that any additional requests by developed countries must be matched by equivalent concessions, in order to maintain the general balance and preserve the development dimension of the Round.

The Ministers emphasised the need for an equitable international system of rules governing intellectual property, allowing among others, for the protection of the indigenous knowledge systems against abuse and for preventing the misappropriation of genetic
resources, and associated traditional knowledge.

They warned against attempts at developing new international rules on intellectual property outside the appropriate fora of WTO and World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). They also called upon a comprehensive implementation of the Development
Agenda by WIPO.

Disarmament and non­proliferation

The Ministers renewed their support for global nuclear disarmament and nuclear non­proliferation and for the complete, non­discriminatory and verifiable elimination of all weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons, within a specified timeframe
. They committed to work in close cooperation in order to help the international community to expedite the achievement of this goal globally. Brazil and South Africa welcomed India's engagement with and interest in participation in the relevant international
multilateral export control regimes and utilization of their guidelines.

South­South cooperation

The Ministers reaffirmed the role of development as an instrument for the achievement of sustainable peace and security as well as in preventing conflict and checking the relapse of countries into conflict. In this context, they reaffirmed the importance
of South­South Cooperation, being implemented jointly through the IBSA Facility for Hunger and Poverty alleviation.

The Ministers reiterated that South­South cooperation is complementary to and not a substitute for North­South cooperation. In this context, they called upon the developed countries to fulfill their commitments by achieving the target of 0.7% GNI as ODA
to developing countries.

Disaster Management

The Ministers underscored the need to enhance disaster management cooperation to enhance disaster prevention and response capabilities of IBSA countries as well as to learn from each other's experience in this field. In this context, they urged their respective
officials to explore the areas for cooperation in disaster management.

The Ministers underscored the need to enhance disaster management cooperation to enhance disaster prevention and response capabilities of IBSA countries as well as to learn from each other's experience in this field. In this context, they urged their respective
officials to explore the areas for cooperation in disaster management.

Global Internet Governance

The IBSA countries are committed to improving the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and its outcomes, with a view to linking it to the broader dialogue and policy making on global internet governance, including through more effective interface with relevant
inter­governmental organizations and other institutions. The Ministers noted with satisfaction the advances in coordinating positions for the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) follow­up mechanisms, for example, with the IBSA Joint Statement about
Enhanced Cooperation on Internet Governance. They acknowledge the value of multi­stakeholder participation on internet governance discussions and reaffirmed their commitment to continuously improve it ­with the special aim to achieve full and equal participation
of stakeholders from developing countries ­and to contribute to the improvement of openness, transparency, diversity of ideas and accountability in the decision making and decision shaping processes regarding global internet governance.

Regional Issues

Middle East Peace Process

The Ministers reviewed the situation in the Middle East following their previous statement on the situation in the Middle East that was made at the 4th IBSA Summit in April 2010, and expressed deep concern regarding the deteriorating situation,
also in view of recent incidents and regional political developments. They reiterated their call for the urgent resumption of negotiations that will lead to a two­state solution, with the creation of a sovereign, democratic, independent, united and viable
Palestinian State, coexisting peacefully alongside Israel, within secure, pre­1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In the context of mass protests in countries of the Middle East and North Africa, as an expression of the aspirations of the peoples of these countries for reform, the Ministers expressed the hope that the situation will be resolved in a peaceful manner,
in the best interests of the respective peoples. The Ministers expressed their deep concern with the present situation in Libya and manifested hope that a peaceful solution for the crisis may be found, in the best interests of the Libyan people. They underscored
that a no­fly zone on the Libyan air space or any coercive measures additional to those foreseen in Resolution 1970 can only be legitimately contemplated in full compliance with the UN Charter and within the Security Council of the United Nations.

Afghanistan

The Ministers emphasized the imperative for the international community to maintain its commitment to render assistance to the Government and people of Afghanistan in ensuring security and development and to make concerted efforts to restore peace and stability
in Afghanistan. They underlined the need for adequate development of the Afghan National Security Forces to enable Afghanistan to defend its sovereignty and independence and for strengthening Afghan capacities to deliver public goods to its citizens. They
expressed concern at the resurgence of the Taliban, Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups and the continuing existence of safe havens and sanctuaries.

While reaffirming their long term commitment to a democratic, pluralistic and stable Afghanistan, the Ministers highlighted the need for strict observance of the sanctions regime against persons and entities listed by UNSC Committee 1267’.

India­LDC (Least Developed Countries) Ministerial Conference

Brazil and South Africa appreciated India's hosting of India­LDC (Least Developed Countries) Ministerial Conference on 18­19 February 2011 under the theme, "Harnessing the positive contribution of South­South Cooperation for development of the Least Developed
Countries (LDCs)” to provide inputs to the 4th UN­LDC Conference to be hosted by Turkey in Istanbul during 9­13 May 2011.

AU and NEPAD

The Ministers extended warm congratulations to the African Union (AU) as 2011 marks ten years since the adoption of New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) as the AU flagship socio­economic programme in Lusaka in July 2001. The Ministers welcomed
the establishment of the NEPAD High­Level Sub­Committee on Infrastructure and South Africa’s championing of the North­South Rail and Road projects, amongst other regional projects. They noted with satisfaction the growing cooperation of Brazil and India with
AU.

Sudan

The Ministers welcomed the delivering of a peaceful and credible referendum for the people of Southern Sudan and the immediate acceptance of the results by the Government of Sudan which would lead to the establishment of an independent and viable state
of South Sudan. The Ministers also called for the early conclusion of outstanding issues such as the referendum for Abyei, border demarcation, natural resources and economic issues, citizenship, security and other issues. The Ministers urged the international
community to honour their commitments towards Sudan.

The Ministers announced their intention that the IBSA Fund will identify reconstruction and development project proposals for discussion with both North and South Sudan.

Côte d’Ivoire

The Ministers indicated their support for the AU High Level Panel for the Resolution of the Crisis in Côte d’Ivoire which was established per AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) at the Assembly of Heads of State and Government
held in Addis Ababa on 28 January 2011.
They urged all parties to refrain from violence and to cooperate with the AU in finding a lasting solution for the country.

Madagascar

The Ministers expressed their continued support for the mediation efforts by the SADC to find an amicable and acceptable solution to the political crisis in that country and called on all parties to cooperate with the Head of the mediation team, i.e. former
President J Chissano of Mozambique.

Somalia

The Ministers remained deeply concerned at the prevailing situation in Somalia and its impact on the countries of the East African region and the Horn of Africa. The increasing instability and lack of progress in the internal reconciliation process is much
regretted and they called on all role players in Somalia to commit themselves to an all inclusive process that will usher in an era of peace in Somalia. IBSA stands ready to support international efforts towards reconciliation, reconstruction and development
of Somalia.

IBSA Sectoral Cooperation: Progress Report

The Ministers took note with satisfaction of the report of the Focal Points on the progress made by the working groups which met in the New Delhi prior to the Trilateral Commission, namely, Culture, Trade and Investment, Public Administration, Agriculture,
Environment, and Information Society. They stressed the importance of regular meeting of the working groups and emphasized the need for all Working Groups to hold at least one meeting a year.

Energy

The Ministers noted that energy is an area of great mutual interest for cooperation under IBSA. They welcomed the signing of an MoU for 4th cooperation on solar energy at the IBSA Summit in April 2010. The Ministers expressed satisfaction at
holding of a Workshop on production and use of bio­fuels by Brazil in September 2010 as well as a Workshop on Technical specifications and standards for bio­fuels hosted by South Africa in December 2010. In order to fulfill this cycle of activities, they would
welcome the holding of a Workshop on Biofuels Production Technologies to be organized by the Indian Government, as previously agreed during the VI Energy WG Meeting.

Agriculture

The Ministers underscored the need for further deepening of cooperation in the field of agriculture and, in this context, appreciated the decision of the Joint Working Group on Agriculture, to undertake collaborative activities in the areas of diagnostics
and control of trans­boundary diseases of animals, training programmes in viticulture, integrated pest management and soya bean production and value addition would be of mutual interest and benefit.

Public Administration & Governance

The Ministers noted that IBSA is uniquely placed to cooperate in the areas of public administration, governance and service delivery. The Joint Working Group on Public Administration actively engaged in promoting transparency, accountability, efficiency
and quality of service rendered to citizens by implementing the IBSA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) through an Annual Plan of Action, identifying various projects/programmes for exchange and cooperation among IBSA countries.

Defence

The Ministers noted progress made under the Joint Working Group on 2nd Defence particularly the successful holding of IBSA Naval Military Exercise – IBSAMAR­II along the South African southern and eastern coast from 8­27 September 2010 with the
participation from all three countries and India as the lead nation. They noted that IBSAMAR III is scheduled to take place in 2012 with Brazil as the rotating lead nation. The Ministers recommended further deepening of cooperation in areas such as exchange
of information in the areas of piracy, international terrorism, cybernetic security, etc.

Revenue Administration

The Ministers noted the holding of Heads of Revenue Administration Working Group (HRAWG) in Salvador, Brazil from 4­7 October 2010 and welcomed the signing of a MoU for exchange of tax information through a centre located in India. They noted that the three
countries could benefit from exchange of information in the areas of transfer pricing/ international taxation, risk profiling, barriers in tax laws and procedures, tax avoidance and abuse of double taxation agreements and capacity building in revenue administration.

Transport

The Ministers underscored that connectivity is at the core of strengthening trilateral cooperation. Cooperation between Maritime Educational Institutes of the three countries for human resource development and capacity building is of mutual interest. Three
countries can also explore possibilities of mutually beneficial investment in maritime infrastructure. They urged Working Group to come up with concrete suggestions to deepen cooperation in this area.

Trade and Investment

Appreciating the work of the Trade and Investment Joint Working Group, the Ministers expressed satisfaction that the three nodal agencies in the field of standardization, viz. Bureau of Indian standards (BIS), South African Bureau of standards (SABS) and
the Brazilian Association of Technical Norms (ABNT) have initiated discussion in order to devise a suitable frame work for structured implementation of the MOU on Trade Facilitation for Standards, Technical and Conformity Assessment. They noted that a Tri­Nation
Summit on Micro, small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) being organized by NSIC of India, SEBRAE of Brazil and SEDA of South Africa has now become a part of the IBSA Summit. They endorsed the recommendation of the Joint Working Group for strengthening of the
existing business linkages by having regular membership in the IBSA Business Forum; enhancing interaction between the financial stakeholders in the three countries; and regular exchange of information about the trade and investment promotion events in the
three countries.

Tourism

The Ministers highlighted the considerable potential for cooperation in tourism and noted suggestions to hold a Workshop on Beach Tourism (Brazil), a Workshop on National parks and Eco­Tourism (South Africa) and a Workshop on Rural Tourism (India).

Science and Technology

The Ministers noted with appreciation the work of the Joint Working Group on Science & Technology which has identified R&D projects for joint funding and has agreed on fresh joint projects. They also noted with satisfaction successful holding of three 'Nano­schools'
– one each in India, Brazil and South Africa ­during 2009­10 for training of young researchers towards human capacity development. The Ministers recommended the scheduled IBSA satellite technical meetings to take place prior to the Summit.

The Ministers also converged on the idea that there should be increased dialogue on the existing modalities of innovation in the three countries. In this regard, the Working Group on Science & Technology shall entail initiatives aimed at better exchanging
information and knowledge about innovation programmes, processes and policies in the three countries, mainly those that promote the direct transfer of scientific and technological knowledge to the productive sector.

The Ministers also noted that the IBSA Website could be developed into an interactive tool and platform for exchange of information among the working groups and other departments engaged in IBSA cooperation as well as for disseminating information to the
public to create awareness about IBSA.

The Ministers took note of the meeting of the Joint Working Group on Information Society which has identified bridging digital divide, collaboration in FOSS (Free and Open Source Software), e­governance, Quality Assurance in e­governance, measurements of
e­readiness and exchange of experts, etc as areas for cooperation. For development of industry­to­industry cooperation, the IT and software industry association of India, Brazil and South Africa, the Ministers suggested increased participation in each other’s
annual events, forums and conferences on ICT.

Environment

The Ministers underlined that cooperation on environment and climate has the potential to forge common stand on various related issues being discussed and negotiated in the international conventions and agreements. The Ministers noted that there exists
significant potential of knowledge and information sharing between scientific and research organisations of the three member countries, especially in the field of forestry, environment and community development.

Health

The Ministers stressed on the need for further strengthening cooperation and sharing of experiences in Public health sector. They noted the Seminar on counterfeit medicines that was held in Geneva in October 2010.

Culture

The Ministers expressed satisfaction at the progress in the work of the Joint Working Group on Culture. They affirmed that it is an important mechanism to further deepen cooperation in this field among the three countries. India has proposed to host an
IBSA Poetry Festival in India 2011. South Africa would consider this to be included as one of the side events of the next IBSA Summit. South African side has also proposed to enhance the visibility of IBSA cultural cooperation by organizing cultural events
during the Summit in which India and Brazil shall also participate. The three side also agreed to actively promote participation in each other’s cultural festivals to reflect IBSA partnership in the cultural field.

People­to­People cooperation

The Ministers stressed that people­to­people cooperation plays an important role in enhancing the importance and visibility of the IBSA Dialogue Forum among the peoples of the three countries. In this context, they encouraged all IBSA Forums including Women’s
Forum, the Parliamentary Forum, the Business Forum, Tri Nation Forum, the Editor’s Forum, the Academic Forum and Local Government Forum to meet before the next Summit. The Ministers complemented the Government of Brazil for bringing out a catalogue of Books
of Reference on India, Brazil and South Africa.

IV IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation

The Ministers took note of the achievements of IBSA Facility for Poverty and Hunger Alleviation through various developmental projects such as in Haiti, Palestine, Guinea­Bissau, Cambodia, Burundi, and Cape Verde. They called upon the concerned parties
to take expeditious steps for early implementation and completion of developmental projects. They reiterated their commitment to contribute at least US$ 1 million per year to the IBSA Trust Fund. 15th

The Ministers furthermore endorsed the decision of the IBSA Focal Points meeting to review the guidelines and to discuss ways and means for IBSA Member States to ensure that there is greater effectiveness, visibility and greater utilization of their own
resources wherever possible. They also decided to support the construction of a Center for People with Special Needs in Nablus, Palestine.

V Final Remarks

The Ministers of Brazil and India accepted with gratitude the South African proposal to host the 8th IBSA Trilateral Commission Meeting in the year 2012 on mutually convenient dates.

The Ministers of Brazil and South Africa thanked the External Affairs Minister of India for hosting the meeting and warm hospitality extended to their delegations.

New Delhi
March 8, 2011
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MEA47274656Agreement signed during the visit of Foreign Minister of South Africa

Name of the Agreement

South African Signatory

Indian Signatory

Agreed Minute of the 8th Session of the India-South Africa Joint Ministerial Commission

H.E. Ms. Nkoana Mashabane
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

We, the Foreign Ministers, Ministers and Representatives of the Least Developed Countries and India attended the India-LDC Ministerial Conference on "Harnessing the Positive Contribution of South-South Cooperation for Development of Least Developed Countries”
in New Delhi during 18-19 February 2011 to foster and further strengthen our mutually reinforcing development partnership, solidarity and commitment to socio-economic advancement of the LDCs. The conference was organized in cooperation with UN-OHRLLS to develop
meaningful inputs for the Fourth UN-LDC Conference (UN-LDC IV) to be held in Istanbul from 9-13 May 2011.

We call upon the international community to express its highest political commitment in support of the Istanbul Program of Action and to the successful and ambitious outcome of the Fourth UN-LDC Conference.

We underscore that the interconnected and globalized world has made it essential for the international community to accord its highest priority to the cause of LDCs to ensure global peace, security and prosperity; and urge that the Istanbul Conference must
galvanize global action in support of the development needs of LDCs, whose progress would bring greater global growth and opportunities for all. The LDCs’ perspective must be taken into account while making decisions on global economic governance.

We underline that addressing extreme poverty, building productive capacity through structural transformation, spurring economic growth, enhancing participation in international trade and building resilience against vulnerabilities are key development challenges
of the LDCs.

We note with concern that international efforts so far have lacked a comprehensive approach to effectively address the challenges faced by the LDCs, evident in the number of LDCs having increased from 25 in 1971 to 48 in 2011, and press for strengthening
of international support mechanisms in favour of LDCs to augment their resources, productive capacity, institutional strength and policy space to lead their respective national development processes; and in this regard call for augmenting ODA, South-South
cooperation and triangular cooperation for a comprehensive implementation of the Istanbul Program of Action.

We call for an ambitious Istanbul Program of Action that aims to get at least 50% of LDCs at the threshold of graduation by 2020.

We underscore the need to have a strong in-built review mechanism in the Istanbul Program of Action for monitoring and evaluating progress and to provide a smooth and effective transition to graduating countries.

We note with satisfaction the increase in South-South Cooperation and South-South trade and investment flows and its positive impact on the LDCs’ development process and commit to further strengthening this partnership, which we see as a complement, and
not a substitute to North-South cooperation.

We note that the Nairobi outcome document of the High-level United Nations Conference on South-South Cooperation, the Marrakech Framework for the Implementation of South-South Cooperation and the Yamoussoukro Consensus on South-South Cooperation constituted
a comprehensive framework for continuing efforts by developing countries to resolve their shared problems and acknowledged the various national, sub-regional and regional initiatives to promote South-South cooperation and called for greater dialogue and exchange
of experiences to increase their coherence.

We acknowledge the need to reinvigorate the United Nations development system in supporting and promoting South-South cooperation, and to this effect urge the United Nations funds, programs and specialized agencies to take concrete measures to mainstream
support for South-South and triangular cooperation to help developing countries, at their request, to develop capacities to maximize the benefits and impact of South-South and triangular cooperation in order to achieve their national development goals and
internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.

We emphasize that promoting economic growth is fundamental to reducing poverty and attaining the Millennium Development Goals and in this regard note the importance of creating a domestic environment conducive to growth of private enterprise and attracting
foreign direct investment in LDCs.

We express deep concern at the precarious state of global food security including food price volatility and inflation and its destabilizing impact on the LDCs, and call for bringing about an agricultural revolution in LDCs to achieve self-sufficiency in
food.

We reaffirm our commitment to promoting access to energy and strengthening energy security to reduce poverty and meet other development challenges in LDCs.

Noting that the share of LDCs in global trade in spite of the Duty Free Quota Free scheme extended by development partners continues to be around 1%, we appeal to countries to address the bottlenecks in the program including stringent rules of origin, complex
procedures and supply side constraints to enable LDCs to have a greater share in global trade.

We call for an early conclusion of the DOHA Round with a development based outcome to allow meaningful integration of the LDCs in the multilateral trading network.

We underscore the significance of science and technology, research and innovation in stimulating development in the LDCs and in this regard call upon developed countries to facilitate transfer of technology to LDCs to support science & technology initiatives.

Citing the success of the India- Africa E-Network, mobile telephony, mobile-banking and renewable energy programs in LDCs, we appreciate that technological leapfrogging has brought immense socio-economic gains and also opened vast opportunities for addressing
developmental challenges in LDCs.

Deeply concerned at the debt situation of several LDCs, we strongly appeal for the creation a debt sustainability framework for LDCs to address their systemic vulnerabilities and to build resilience in their economies.

We recognize that Climate Change presents a major threat to livelihoods in developing countries, particularly in LDCs and other vulnerable countries and pledge to work together to take forward the Cancun agreements to find effective solutions based on the
principle of equity and common but differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities. We call for immediate disbursement of fast start funds agreed under Cancun Agreements to the LDCs and special allocation of resources under the Green Climate Fund
for LDCs along with transfer of environmentally sound technologies to LDCs to meet their urgent adaptation and mitigation needs. We urge the parties to urgently reach agreement on the design of the Fund and the measures to significantly scale-up long-term
financing for meeting mitigation and adaptation needs in developing countries in accordance with the provisions of the Convention

We thank the participation of Turkey, Finland, Australia, Hungary, Slovenia, China, United States of America, Germany, Croatia, Georgia European Union, Italy, France, UNDP and UNCTAD as Observers in the Conference.

The Ministers and Representatives of LDCs and other participants at the Conference welcomed and thanked the Government of India for announcing new initiatives in support of the development needs of LDCs comprising 5 additional slots annually under the Indian
Economic and Technical Cooperation (ITEC) Program to each LDC; US$ 5million over the next five years for follow-up activities of the Istanbul Program of Action; and a Line of Credit of US$ 500 million over the next five years to be used specifically for projects
and programmes of Least Developed Countries.

The Ministers and Representatives of LDCs thanked the Government of India for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements made for hosting the India-LDC Ministerial Conference and for India’s continued commitment and support to the cause of the LDCs.

New Delhi
February 19, 2011
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MEA43844389Note on India and Least Development Countries (LDCs)Ministry of External AffairsNote on India and Least Development Countries (LDCs)

UN and the LDCs
The United Nations (UN) established the Least Developed countries (LDCs) as a separate category of Nations in 1971. The International Development Strategy for the second UN Development Decade for the 1970s incorporated special measures for the LDCs. Thereafter,
the UN decided to hold a dedicated Conference once every 10 years to address the development needs of the LDCs. The First United Nations Conference on the LDCs was held in Paris in 1981; the Second in 1991 again in Paris and the Third in Brussels in 2001 hosted
by the European Union. The three Programs of Action adopted so far have had limited impact on the development process of the LDCs. As a result, only three countries have graduated out of the Group since 1981: Botswana (1994), Cape Verde (2007), and Maldives
(2011).

UN-OHRLLS: The United Nations Office of the High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) was set up in 2001 as a follow-up mechanism to the Third UN Conference on the LDCs
held in Brussels.

Fourth UN-LDC Conference

Turkey would be hosting the Fourth UN-LDC Conference in Istanbul during 9-13 May 2011. The LDCs and host Turkey are expecting an ambitious outcome from the Istanbul Conference; one which would allow at least 50% of the countries to reach the threshold of graduation
by 2020. In the new Program of Action to be finalised in Istanbul, the LDCs are looking for stronger international support measures to meet their development needs: greater Official Development Assistance (ODA) support from the North, enhanced assistance from
South¡VSouth Cooperation, increased FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) and financial flows from innovative sources and leveraging triangular cooperation.

The Least Developed Countries

The LDCs represent the most vulnerable and the poorest segment of the international community. Of the 48 LDCs, 33 are in Africa, 14 in the Asia Pacific region and one in Central America. These 48 countries account for approximately 815 million people, of which
50% live below the poverty line.

Criteria for LDC classification: The criteria for classifying a country as an LDC are based on: Per capita income; Human asset index; and Economic vulnerability index.

Special needs and vulnerabilities of LDCs: Extreme poverty, lack of productive capacity, absence of infrastructure and institutions; food and energy shortages; weak domestic market; dependence on commodity exports; high global health burden; vulnerability to
external shocks and structural weaknesses have long held the LDCs in a state of under-development. They are the most off-track on the Millennium Development Goals.

Dependence of LDCs on global trade: Due to limited structural transformation, the LDCs are heavily dependent on exports of commodities and natural resources for economic growth. However, their total exports in 2009 were only about 1% of the total global trade.
In 2009, out of US$ 128 billion LDC exports, US$ 68 came from fuels, US$ 30 from primary commodities, US$11 billion from foods and US$4 billion from agricultural products.

India has traditionally been a strong of supporter of the LDCs. In fact, India played an active role in the setting up of the Group: the idea of creating a separate category of LDCs was discussed in detail and took shape in the 2nd UNCTAD Session held in New
Delhi in 1968. India has excellent bilateral relations with each LDC and has longstanding development partnerships with them. Our development assistance to the LDCs is aimed at building productive capacities, institutional strength, infrastructure development
and technical expertise to create long term sustainability in these countries.

The Minister of External Affairs of India, the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, the Minister of External Relations of Brazil and the State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Japan met in New York on 11 February 2011, for the second time in
the last six months, to exchange views on Security Council reform.

The Ministers agreed that as democracies with shared political values including respect for the rule of law, respect for human rights and a commitment to multilateralism, the G4 countries hold a number of common positions on the major contemporary challenges
to international peace and security. They noted with satisfaction the important contributions being made by their countries to the working of the Security Council and to the maintenance of international peace and security. They reaffirmed their willingness
and capacity to take on major responsibilities in this regard. They stated that the international system would benefit from the expansion of the UN Security Council, which would ensure that the Council is truly reflective of current geopolitical realities
and make it stronger, more representative, legitimate, effective and efficient.

In this context, the G4 countries reiterated their commitments as aspiring new permanent members of the UN Security Council, as well as their support for each other's candidatures. The G4 countries also reaffirmed their view of the importance of Africa
to be represented in the permanent membership of an enlarged Council. They also reconfirmed the need for additional non-permanent members and improvement in the Council’s working methods.

The Ministers expressed gratitude for the efforts made by the President of the General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Joseph Deiss and Ambassador Zahir Tanin, the Chair of the intergovernmental negotiations, for their facilitating role in the negotiations among the
Member States. The Ministers stressed that the ongoing intergovernmental negotiations made it clear that the overwhelming majority of the Member States support expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of the Security Council membership,
as well as increased representation of developing countries in both.

The Ministers recognized that there is widespread support for a Member-States driven initiative to take the process of the much-needed reform of the Security Council towards a concrete outcome in the current session of the UN General Assembly.

The Ministers, therefore, agreed to press ahead, with all necessary steps to achieve at the earliest an expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent membership categories of the Security Council. Towards this goal, the G4 countries reaffirmed their
readiness to reach out to other countries and to work in close cooperation with them in a spirit of flexibility.

Finally, the Ministers agreed to meet again within the coming quarter to review progress on the decisions taken.

S. M. Krishna
Minister of External Affairs of India

Guido Westerwelle
Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany

Antonio de Aguiar Patriota
Minister of External Relations of Brazil

Takeaki Matsumoto
State Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Japan

New York
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MEA43954496Joint Statement during the visit of President of AfghanistanH.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, visited India on 2-3 February 2011 at the invitation of Dr. Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India. President Karzai held meetings with Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, President of
India and Dr. Manmohan Singh. The visit reflected the close friendship between the people of India and Afghanistan, and the continuing tradition of high-level and frequent consultations between the leaders of the two countries.

President Karzai and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held detailed discussions covering issues of bilateral and regional interest. The Indian side reiterated its long term commitment to the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan, and to the efforts of
the Government of Afghanistan under President Karzai’s leadership to build a strong, independent, democratic, peaceful and prosperous nation. The two leaders agreed that the strategic partnership between India and Afghanistan is a positive factor for peace
and stability in the region. In this context, the two leaders also discussed the common threat faced by both their societies from terrorism. They agreed that this ran counter to the aspiration of their peoples.

President Karzai expressed gratitude of the Afghan people for the assistance provided by India over the years. He underlined the need for the two countries to work together in close cooperation in the interest of the people of the two countries and stability
in the region at large.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh accepted an invitation from President Karzai to visit Afghanistan at an early date.

New Delhi
February 3, 2011
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MEA44963132Joint Statement during the visit of Foreign Secretary Smt. Nirupama Rao to Sri LankaThe Foreign Secretary of India, Mrs. Nirupama Rao, visited Sri Lanka on 30-31 January 2011. During her visit, she called on His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G.L. Peiris, on 31st January 2011.
She also met Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga, Defence Secretary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa and External Affairs Secretary Mr. C.R. Jayasinghe.

During the discussions, Foreign Secretary Rao expressed the deep concern of the Government of India at the recent violent incidents in the waters between India and Sri Lanka, which had resulted in the tragic death of two Indian fishermen. She stressed that
these incidents should be fully investigated and all steps taken to prevent their recurrence in future. The Sri Lanka authorities emphasized in this regard that it is the consistent policy of Sri Lanka to treat in a humanitarian manner all fishermen, including
those from the Indian fishing community, who cross into Sri Lanka waters. Given the very close bilateral relationship between the two countries, any development which impacts on the wellbeing of the Indian fishing community pursuing their livelihoods in the
waters between the two countries, is of the utmost concern to Sri Lanka. The Government of Sri Lanka is therefore committed to ascertaining the facts behind the incidents. While continuing with further inquiries, the Sri Lankan authorities have requested that
additional information be made available by the Indian side. Both sides agreed that the use of force cannot be justified under any circumstances.